Photoluminescence (PL) properties of porous anodic alumina (PAA) films prepared by using electrochemical anodization technique in a mixed solution of oxalic and sulfuric acid have been investigated. The PAA films have an intensive ultraviolet PL emission around 350 nm, of which a possible PL mechanism has been proposed. It was found that the incorporated oxalic ions, which could transform into PL centers and exist in the PAA films, are responsible for this ultraviolet PL emission.
