Dual‐Functional X‐Ray Photochromic Phosphor: High‐Performance Detection and 3D Imaging

• Published in: Advanced functional materials Vol. 34; no. 37
• Main Authors: Bai, Xue, Xu, Zan, Zi, Yingzhu, Zhao, Heping, Zhu, Bokun, Feng, Rongbao, Cun, Yangke, Huang, Anjun, Liu, Yue, Li, Yuewei, Qiu, Jianbei, Song, Zhiguo, Langford, Steven J., Liao, Jiayan, Yang, Zhengwen
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.09.2024
• Subjects: Bleaching; dual‐mode X‐ray applications; Imaging; luminescence modulation; luminescent imaging; Optical memory (data storage); Phosphors; Photochromism; Photoluminescence; X‐ray photochromic detection
• ISSN: 1616-301X; 1616-3028
• DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202402452

This study explores the integration of X‐ray‐induced photochromism and photoluminescence in a single material, offering innovative multi‐mode applications in optical memory, anti‐counterfeiting, and X‐ray detection and imaging. The photochromic phosphor LiAlSi2O6:Sm3+ is synthesized, which undergoes a color change from white to dark green under bright field conditions and displays orange photoluminescence in dark field conditions after X‐ray exposure due to defect formation. The phosphor shows accelerated bleaching and recovery under 473 nm laser stimulation. The distinct X‐ray‐induced color contrast and luminescence intensity modification in LiAlSi2O6:Sm3+ highlight its potential in advanced luminescent material design. Moreover, a LiAlSi2O6:Sm3+‐based flexible film demonstrates “dual‐mode” 3D X‐ray imaging and detection capabilities, paving the way for future X‐ray detecting and imaging device research. The reversible X‐ray‐induced photochromic and luminescence modulation in LiAlSi2O6:Sm3+ is explored, attributed to the formation of oxygen vacancy‐related color centers under X‐ray exposure. This material's distinct X‐ray‐induced color contrast and luminescence modification underscore its potential for dual‐mode X‐ray detection and 3D imaging, showcasing stability, repeatability, and fatigue resistance.