Intriguing aspects of lanthanide luminescence

Abstract

The enthralling properties of lanthanide luminescence have propelled luminescent probes, tags and materials based on these elements to the forefront of science and technology. In this minireview, attention is focused on the latest innovations and on less-known aspects of this field. Exciting new developments in bioimaging, therapy, drug delivery, security tags, luminescent sensors, and solar energy conversion are highlighted.