Amplified luminescence in organo-curium nanocrystal hybrids

Abstract

We present the first report of ligand-sensitized, actinide luminescence in a lanthanide nanoparticle host. Amplified luminescence of ²⁴⁸Cm³⁺ doped in a NaGdF₄ lattice is achieved through optical pumping of a surface-localized metal chelator, 3,4,3-LI(1,2-HOPO), capable of sensitizing Cm³⁺ excited states. The data suggest the possibility of using such materials in theranostic applications, with a ligand-sensitized actinide or radio-lanthanide serving the dual roles of a nuclear decay source for radiotherapeutics, and as a luminescent center or energy transfer conduit to another emissive metal ion, for biological imaging.