The aim of the project is investigation of spectral characteristics for group of nano-structured and macro-size inorganic wide band gap materials (the III group element nitrides - AlN, hBN, some metal oxides - ZnO, TiO2, SnO2 and oxyfluoride glass ceramics) in order to elaborate materials with definite properties, available for developing of luminescent sensors of environmental gases (oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide etc.), as well as to work out the convertors of ultraviolet radiation into the visible light in order to create new materials - emitters of visible light. The project is not connected with business activity.
The project implies studies, which correspond to the category of industrial research – in the result of the studies there will be developed new products – new materials, which are sensitive to gases and those usable for visible light sources. The studied spectral and other properties of the materials under investigation are summarised in work packages.
The project contains 8 activities, devoted to studies of luminescence processes and their mechanisms for the mentioned materials. Luminescence of nitrides and oxides is studied in dependence of temperature and defects present (surface and bulk defects); as well as the effects of the ambient atmosphere (air, vacuum, different gases). Luminescence of oxifluoride glass ceramics is studied in dependence of the sample composition in order to develop efficient emitters of visible light.
The project is implemented in Institute of Solid state Physics, University of Latvia, in Riga. Both experiences scientists and young specialists as well as technicians (31 person totally) are involved in implementation of the project. All the equipment necessary for implementation of the project is available.