6–10 Jul 2026
University of the Western Cape
Africa/Johannesburg timezone
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Lanthanide-Doped Ca5Mg4(VO4)6 Phosphors for NIR-to-Visible Latent Fingerprint Visualization

9 Jul 2026, 10:10
20m
Lecture Hall GH1 (University of the Western Cape)

Lecture Hall GH1

University of the Western Cape

Oral Presentation Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and Materials Physics of Condensed Matter and Materials

Speaker

Hope Ramolahloane (University of the Free State)

Description

Abstract
Latent fingerprint detection using powder dusting relies on achieving high contrast between the fingerprint details and the underlying surface. Conventional and near-ultraviolet (NUV)-excited powders often suffer from background interference, limiting their effectiveness on multicoloured or fluorescent substrates. Near-infrared (NIR)-to-visible upconversion materials offer a promising alternative by enabling excitation in the NIR region, thereby minimizing background interference and enhancing detection sensitivity. In this study, Ca5Mg4(VO4)6 phosphors co-doped with Yb3+/Er3+ and Yb3+/Ho3+ were synthesized via a solid-state reaction method and investigated as potential upconversion-based fingerprint powders. The phase purity of the phosphors was confirmed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). Under 980 nm excitation, the Yb3+/Er3+ system exhibited strong green emission (~550 nm), while the Yb3+/Ho3+ system showed dominant red emission (~650 nm). Power-dependent and temperature-dependent luminescence measurements were conducted to further evaluate the upconversion behaviour and thermal response of the materials. The distinct and tuneable emissions highlight the potential of these materials for high-contrast latent fingerprint visualization across a range of surfaces, particularly where conventional and UV-based methods are limited, while also expanding the limited understanding of Ca5Mg4(VO4)6 as an upconversion host.

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Author

Hope Ramolahloane (University of the Free State)

Co-authors

GOVIND B. NAIR (Department of Physics, University of the Free State, 205, Nelson Mandela drive, Brandwag, Bloemfontein 9300) Hendrik Swart (University of the Free State)

Presentation materials

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