Since their discovery, metal–organic frameworks
(MOFs) have
attracted increasing interest due to the different applications of
these materials. One class of these materials is the mixed lanthanide-organic
frameworks (m-LnOFs) formed by more than one type
of lanthanide ion. Such compounds have been extensively studied, mainly
as luminescent thermometers. However, another very interesting application
is the use of mixed LnOFs as markers in gunshot residues (GSR), allowing
for the creation of a barcode prototype for each type of ammunition.
This work reports the hydrothermal synthesis, complete structural
characterization, and photophysical study of nine new mixed LnOFs,
of general formula [EuxTb1‑x(Hbtec)]n (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.9), and with
Hbtec3‑ being the anion from 1,2,4,5-benzenetetracarboxylic
acid (H4btec). The mixed compound [Eu0.1Tb0.9(Hbtec)]n
1 has excellent thermal
stability and interesting optical properties, such as more pronounced
dual emission and a characteristic Tb3+ → Eu3+ energy transfer, culminating in high purity of its red emission,
when compared to its isostructural homometallic [Eu(Hbtec)]n, previously synthesized. Thus, the compound [Eu0.1Tb0.9(Hbtec)]n
1 was selected to act
as a potential ammunition marker, more precisely in .380 pistol and
38 caliber revolver, demonstrating satisfactory results and being
able to provide support to public safety in the future.
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