Visible-to-ultraviolet-C upconverted photon for multifunction via Ca2SiO4:Pr3+

The ultraviolet C (UVC) photon plays a key role in a broad spectrum of fields. With the implementation of the Minamata Convention, searching for a new way to achieve UVC light is highly desired. Here we develop a material of Ca₂SiO₄:Pr³⁺ that can emit UVC light upon excitation of a 450-nm laser or even a very cheap 450-nm LED, a fact confirmed by using a solar blind camera to capture UVC emission from Ca₂SiO₄:Pr³⁺. In addition, smart anti-counterfeiting and inactivation of Bacillus subtilis applications using Ca₂SiO₄:Pr³⁺ are also confirmed.