An Interaction Model for Solid-Matrix Phosphorescence with Filter Paper via the Modulus of Filter Paper

Abstract

The experimental values of Young's modulus for filter paper samples were obtained as a function of temperature. These experimental modulus values for the filter paper samples, along with literature modulus values for regenerated cellulose and chromatography paper, were used to derive equations that relate Young's modulus values of filter paper to the phosphorescence lifetimes of adsorbed phosphors on filter paper as a function of temperature. In addition, an equation was derived for one of the phosphors that relates the changes in phosphorescence quantum yield with temperature to Young's modulus. The basis for the equations is a theory for hydrogen-bond-dominated solids that considers Young's modulus as related to the average force constant for the hydrogen bonds in paper and the effective number of hydrogen bonds in paper. For all the systems investigated, linear relationships were obtained between ln(phosphorescence lifetime) and ln(Young's modulus). Also, a linear equation was obtained between ln(phosphorescence quantum yield) and ln(Young's modulus) for one of the phosphors. In general, the results of this work form the basis of a fundamental theory for the phosphorescence of compounds adsorbed on filter paper.