Synthesis,structural, thermal and optical studies of rare earth coordinated complex: Tb(Sal)3Phen

Complexes of salicylic acid (Sal) and 1,10-phenanthroline (Phen) were synthesized coordinated with terbium ion (Tb³⁺) in crystalline phases. The structural characterizations of the lanthanide complex were made using FT-IR, NMR (¹H and ¹³C) and XRD techniques. These measurements confirm the formation of Tb(Sal)₃Phen complex structure. The thermal aspects of the complex were examined using DTA and TGA techniques. An enhancement in luminescence intensity of Tb³⁺ ion bands were observed in Tb(Sal)₃Phen complex as compared to TbCl₃ crystals on 355 nm laser excitation. Enhancement is reported due to the efficient energy transfer process from Sal to Tb³⁺ ions. This is also confirmed by the time resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy with increase in lifetime of Tb³⁺ ions due to encapsulation in Sal/Phen network. Our system in itself can be a deserving candidate for luminescent solar collector material when coupled with solar cells.