Abstract
The utilization of luminescent phosphors in barcode technology can enhance the security feature. Using NaOH as a reducing agent, we have prepared Gd(2)O(3):Eu(3+)/Er(3+) for luminescent phosphor. The cubic structure of Gd(2)O(3) phosphor is confirmed by the structural analysis conducted using XRD. Dopant Eu and Er induce lattice contraction and expansion in the host lattice, respectively. Based on SEM analysis, porous and irregular particles with an average size of 401 nm were observed. In Tem analysis of prepared phosphor have some particle are in spherical in shape. The formation of Gd(2)O(3) was confirmed by Gd-O band stretching as shown in the FTIR analysis. The emission in the red and green regions is emitted by Gd(2)O(3):Eu(3+) and Gd(2)O(3):Er(3+), respectively. The emission peaks of Gd(2)O(3):Eu(3+)/Er(3+) are observed at 524 nm, 539 nm, 549 nm, 563 nm, 593 nm, 612 nm, and 629 nm when it is triggered by 363 nm, with a maximum energy transfer efficiency of 95.93%. Enhancing the security of barcodes can be achieved through the use of color-tunable Gd(2)O(3):Eu(3+)/Er(3+) phosphor. Gd(2)O(3):Er(3+) (1.5 mol%) is a prominent candidate for LED bulbs due to its CCT (5765 K). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-025-21434-3.