Multimode stimulated luminescence of LiNbO3:Pr3+/ZnS:Cu/PDMS flexible films†

Abstract

The versatility of emission modes and colors in flexible films is essential for broadening their potential applications. This study presents the development of a multi-mode luminescent flexible film by integrating ZnS:Cu and LiNbO₃:Pr³⁺ powders into a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix. The ZnS:Cu and LiNbO₃:Pr³⁺ powders are uniformly distributed in the PDMS matrix. The effect of the LiNbO₃:Pr³⁺ content on the photoluminescence (PL), electroluminescence (EL), mechanoluminescence (ML), thermoluminescence (TL), and photostimulated luminescence (PSL) properties of the films has been investigated. The PL colors of the LiNbO₃:Pr³⁺/ZnS:Cu/PDMS flexible films due to the distinct intrinsic emissions of ZnS:Cu and LiNbO₃:Pr³⁺ can be changed by altering the excitation wavelength. An appropriate content of the LiNbO₃:Pr³⁺ powder introduces PSL into the flexible films, while the films demonstrate excellent EL and ML performance, along with multicolored TL emissions, including red and green. This research offers a novel approach to enhancing flexible electronic displays, EL devices, and optical anti-counterfeiting technologies.