KazNU researchers launch a scientific project aimed at developing advanced luminescent materials

At Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, a scientific project focused on the study of borophosphate functional materials is being implemented. The research is dedicated to analyzing the influence of isomorphic substitutions in the crystal structure of CaBPO₅:Eu on its luminescent properties. The study is conducted in the fields of energy science, advanced materials, and optoelectronics, aiming to improve the efficiency of luminescent materials and control emission spectra. Scientists of KazNU are carrying out comprehensive structural and optical analyses of promising functional materials.

Luminescent materials play an important role in the development of modern technologies. They are widely used in light-emitting diodes, laser systems, fluorescence lighting devices, and radiation detectors. Borophosphate compounds attract significant attention due to their unique structural and physicochemical properties, as their crystal structure simultaneously contains borate and phosphate anionic groups. This provides broad opportunities for studying the influence of chemical composition on optical characteristics.

The main objective of the project is to investigate the effect of isomorphic substitutions in the cationic and anionic sublattices of CaBPO₅ on the luminescent properties of the material. Special attention is given to the possible existence of europium in two valence states — Eu²⁺ and Eu³⁺. The Eu²⁺ ion typically produces emission in the blue and green regions of the spectrum, whereas Eu³⁺ is associated with orange-red luminescence. Controlling the ratio of these states enables regulation of the emission color of the material.

Within the project, charge compensation processes through the introduction of additional ions are studied. The influence of elements such as lithium, sodium, potassium, silver, copper, and rubidium is considered, as these may partially substitute Ca²⁺ ions and maintain the electroneutrality of the crystal structure. The possibility of partial substitution of phosphate and borate groups with other tetrahedral anions is also investigated to improve structural stability.

An important research direction is the optimization of material synthesis conditions. Temperature, synthesis atmosphere, and annealing duration significantly affect the luminescent characteristics of the compounds. For each new composition, individual technological parameters are selected to achieve maximum emission efficiency.

The project is expected to yield several important results. First, new CaBPO₅:Eu-based materials with improved luminescent efficiency will be synthesized. Second, regularities of the influence of different isomorphic substitution schemes on the optical properties of the material will be established. Third, a scientific foundation will be created for developing technologies for producing next-generation high-efficiency phosphors.

The research results have significant scientific value. Detailed analysis of the relationship between structure, composition, and luminescent characteristics of borophosphates will expand knowledge in materials science. The development of new synthesis and modification methods will create a foundation for more stable and efficient luminescent systems.

The practical significance of the project is also high. The obtained materials can be used in the development of light-emitting devices, fluorescent lamps, and laser systems. Borophosphates also have potential applications as scintillators for ionizing radiation detection. In biomedical applications, they can serve as luminescent markers for bioimaging, improving the accuracy of diagnostic procedures.

The research is conducted in accordance with international scientific standards. Project results will be published in peer-reviewed international journals. Young scientists, doctoral students, and undergraduates are actively involved in the work, contributing to the training of highly qualified scientific personnel and strengthening the country’s scientific potential.

Thus, the research conducted by scientists of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University is aimed at creating new-generation luminescent materials. The analysis of structural and optical properties of borophosphates opens prospects for the development of high-tech optoelectronic devices and advanced energy materials of the future.