Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ (YAG:Ce) nanoparticles were prepared by a two-step approach including ionic-liquid-assisted particle formation and LiCl-matrix-treated crystallization. Subsequent to particle formation in [MeBu3N][N(SO2CF3)2] as the ionic liquid (MeBu3N: tributylmethylammonium; N(SO2CF3)2: bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide), the as-obtained amorphous precursor nanoparticles were crystallized in a LiCl matrix (600 °C, 1 h). The resulting YAG:Ce nanoparticles are well crystallized and exhibit a diameter of about 40 nm. They show bulk-like luminescence and a quantum yield of 51(±3)%. The selected Y : Al ratio and temperature profile turned out to be optimal for the synthesis strategy in terms of particle size and luminescence properties although minor amounts of CeO2 remained. The YAG:Ce nanoparticles can be easily redispersed in the liquid phase and embedded in polymers such as polyester. The course of the reaction and the properties of the nanoparticles are characterized by electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and fluorescence spectroscopy.
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