In situ reduction of Europium (III) using Ammonium Fluoride

Traditionally, Europium (III) reduction requires high temperatures and strict reducing atmospheres. This work study the possibilities of in situ reduction using a combination of NH₄F atmosphere and X-ray radiation. The materials synthesized for this work were YF₃ doped with Eu³⁺ and EuF₃, and the effects of the synthesis steps used were observed by observing the photoluminescence of the material, where there is a characteristic broad 4f⁶5d¹ -> 4f⁷  emission band, and the characteristic Eu²⁺ paramagnetic signature.