Low-dimensional lead-halide hybrids are an emerging class
of optical
functional material but suffer the problems of toxicity and poor air
stability. Among lead-free metal halides, tin(IV)-based metal halides
are promising optoelectronic materials due to their robust structure
and environmental friendliness. However, their photoluminescence (PL)
properties are poor, and the underlying mechanisms are still elusive.
Herein, a stable Sn4+-based halide hybrid, (C4H7N2)2SnCl6, was developed,
which however exhibits poor PL properties at room temperature (RT)
due to the lattice defects and the robust crystal structure. To enhance
its PL efficiency, the Te4+ ion with a stereoactive 5s2 lone pair has been introduced into the lattice. As a result,
Te4+-doped (C4H7N2)2SnCl6 displays broadband orange emission (∼640
nm) with a PL efficiency of ∼46% at RT. Interestingly, Te4+-doped (C4H7N2)2SnCl6 shows triple emission bands at 80 K, which could
be due to the synergistic effect of the organic cations and the self-trapped
state induced by Te4+. Additionally, high-performance white
light-emitting diodes were prepared using Te4+-doped (C4H7N2)2SnCl6, revealing
the potential of this material for lighting applications. This study
provides new insight into the PL mechanism of Sn4+-based
metal-halide hybrids and thus facilitates the design and development
of eco-friendly light-emitting metal halides.