Effect of the synthesis route on the luminescence properties of Eu3+ activated Li6M(BO3)3 (M = Y, Gd) phosphors

Abstract

In the present paper, we discuss the synthesis route dependence of luminescence in Li6M(BO3)3:Eu3+ (M = Y, Gd) phosphors. The current phosphors were prepared by two distinct methods of synthesis, viz., combustion and wet chemical methods for varying concentration of Eu3+ activator and the prepared phosphors were compared with those prepared by solid state reaction method. The phosphors were effectively synthesized by combustion and wet chemical methods in an open atmosphere. Each phosphor, thus, derived was further characterized for phase purity, morphology, and luminescent properties at room temperature. The emission and excitation spectra were pursued to discover the luminescence traits. The excitation spectra indicate that the prepared phosphors can be efficiently excited at 395 nm, 467 and 540 nm/550 nm light to give emission at 595 and 614 nm due to 5D0 → 7Fj transition of Eu3+ ions. A strong and dominant red emission is achieved at 614 nm achieved from the 5D0 → 7F2 transition of Eu3+ ions. Li6M1-x(BO3)3:Eux may be a suitable red-emitting component for solid state lighting.