Novel Sm3+ doped YCa4O(BO3)3 phosphors: Structural and, low and room temperature luminescent insights

Abstract

Inorganic phosphors, known for their ability to capture energy from various sources and emit visible light, have become essential in the development of advanced lighting and display technologies. This study explores YCa4O(BO3)3 (YCOB) as a potential host material for phosphors, focusing on the luminescent properties of YCOB phosphors doped with Sm3+ ions. The successful integration of Sm3+ ions into the YCOB host lattice is confirmed through structural characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). Photoluminescence (PL) studies reveal distinct emission spectra with Stark energy level splitting, indicating a cooperative effect between Y3+ and Sm3+ ions. Concentration quenching, mainly attributed to dipole-dipole (d-q) interactions, is observed at higher Sm3+ concentrations. Temperature-dependent PL measurements demonstrate thermal quenching at lower temperatures and increased emission intensity with higher laser power. Thermal quenching is explained by reduced lattice vibrations and electron-phonon interactions, leading to decreased radiative recombination of charge carriers. The CIE chromaticity data position the samples in the orange-red region, emitting vibrant orange-red light. This comprehensive investigation provides insights into the synthesis and luminescent properties of YCOB:Sm3+ phosphors, highlighting their potential applications in luminescent devices.