Facile fabrication and characterization of Sm3+ doped LaAlO3 nanophosphors for enhanced luminescence and photocatalytic dye degradation

Utilizing the solution combustion synthesis approach, LaAlO₃: Sm³⁺ (1–9 mol %) nanoparticles (NPs) were created. Several analytical methods, including PXRD, FTIR, SEM, and TEM, are used to do the structural study. It is discovered that the band gap lies between 4.9 and 5.3 eV. The optical properties of the synthesized NPs are investigated by analyzing photoluminescence spectra. At 850 °C, calcination yields a pure rhombohedral phase. SEM pictures of the nanoparticles show the agglomerated porous structure. The PL spectra show Sm³⁺ ions' distinctive emission peaks to ⁶H_J = 9/2, 7/2, and 5/2 from ⁴G_5/2 transitions with a yellowish orange shade under the excitation wavelength of 406 nm and confirmed by the CIE coordinates. Additionally, photocatalytic dye degradation of methylene blue dye is carried out using LaAlO₃: Sm³⁺ (5 mol %) nanoparticles. In 180 min of short duration, under UV light, the % degradation of methylene blue dye is 99 %, and under sunlight 91 %. Notably, the dye degradation remained efficient (up to 85 %) in the presence of multiple cations. Regenerative and reusability studies further confirmed the material's robust photocatalytic activity. These materials are promising candidates for the production of photoluminescence liquid crystal displays, field emission displays, and other optical devices, along with these nanoparticles can be used as an efficient photocatalyst for pollutant water treatment.