Gd2O3 fibers from nano to submicron diameter were prepared by electrospinning technique. The polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was used as a structure directing template for the synthesis of Gd2O3 fibers. The crystal structure and morphology of Gd2O3 fiber were studied by XRD and SEM analyses. The presence of functional groups was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. Thermal behavior of PVA/Gd-2(NO3)(2) hybrid fibers were investigated by thermo-gravimetric analysis. Gd2O3 nanofibers exhibit bright down and upconversion luminescence under ultraviolet light excitation, with potential applications as of light-emitting phosphors, advanced flat panel displays and biological labeling. (C) 2012 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.