J. Mater. Sci. Technol. ›› 2025, Vol. 235: 156-166.DOI: 10.1016/j.jmst.2025.01.062

• Research Article • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Lead-free Ba₂LaNbO₆: Eu³⁺ phosphors with Bi³⁺-enhanced photochromism for dual-mode X-ray detection and 3D imaging

Yueteng Zhanga, Zan Xua, Xue Baia, Heping Zhaoa, Jianbei Qiua, Zhiguo Songa, Jiayan Liaob,*, Zhengwen Yanga,*   

  1. aCollege of Materials Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, China;
    bInstitute for Biomedical Materials and Devices (IBMD), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
  • Received:2024-11-20 Revised:2025-01-02 Accepted:2025-01-08 Published:2025-11-10 Online:2025-12-19
  • Contact: *E-mail addresses: jiayan.liao@uts.edu.au (J. Liao), yangzw@kust.edu.cn (Z. Yang).

Abstract: This study explores the application of X-ray-induced photochromism and photoluminescence in optical storage, anti-counterfeiting, non-destructive testing, and high-resolution X-ray detection and imaging. Ba₂LaNbO₆: Bi, Eu phosphors were synthesized, with Bi enhancing X-ray-induced photochromic properties. Under X-ray irradiation, the phosphors transfer from white to red in bright field conditions and emit red photoluminescence in dark field conditions. Exposure to 470 nm ultraviolet light induces rapid bleaching. The mechanisms of photochromism and photoluminescence, particularly Bi's role as a colorant, were systematically investigated. The Ba2LaNbO6: Bi, Eu phosphors film achieves high resolution, highlighting its potential for X-ray imaging and non-destructive testing. Furthermore, the flexible Ba2LaNbO6: Bi, Eu film supports dual-mode imaging and detection, addressing the limitations of traditional flat displays in 3D imaging.

Key words: Lead-free double perovskite, X-ray detection, X-ray imaging, Non-destructive testing