We studied the structures, luminescence and self-quenching properties of tris(2,2′-bipyridyl)ruthenium(II) (Ru(bpy)32+) two-dimensional arrangements within the layers of zirconium phosphate (ZrP). The intercalation of Ru(bpy)32+ was accomplished using a hydrated form of zirconium phosphate ZrP. Varying the Ru(bpy)32+:ZrP intercalation ratio, different Ru(bpy)32+-exchanged ZrP loading levels were achieved. The ion exchange of Ru(bpy)32+ within ZrP produces a red shift in the MLCT absorption band of the complex from 452 nm in aqueous solution to 460 nm in ZrP. Steady state luminescence spectra of the Ru(bpy)32+-exchanged ZrP materials show an increase in the luminescence intensity with an increase in the Ru(bpy)32+ loading level until ca. 0.77 M, where subsequent increases in the loading level produce a decrease in the luminescence (self-quenching region). Time-resolved luminescence measurements are consistent with the steady state luminescence measurements. Analysis of the time domain luminescence measurements in loadings higher than 0.77 M leads to the determination of a collisional quenching rate constant of (1.67 ± 0.05) × 106 M−1 s−1. Stern-Volmer indicates that static analysis of the luminescence quantum yield of Ru(bpy)32+-exchanged ZrP materials quenching is also involved in the Ru(bpy)32+ self-quenching mechanism. The quantum yield data behavior might be explained by a model that takes into account collisional quenching and the quasi-static Perrin mechanism. The calculation yields a quenching sphere of action of 14.8 Å, which is slightly larger that the collisional radii of two Ru(bpy)32+ ions (12.2 Å), as predicted by the model.