Structural and optical properties of green emitting Y2SiO5:Tb3+ and Gd2SiO5:Tb3+ nanoparticles for modern lighting applications

Abstract

The optical and structural properties of Tb3+-doped yttrium and gadolinium oxyorthosilicate (Y2SiO5 and Gd2SiO5) phosphors were analyzed. The samples were synthesized via sol–gel combustion method using organic fuel. The phase purity and structural properties of the samples were determined via combined approach of powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier transformation infrared (FTIR) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). X-ray measurements revel monoclinic crystal lattice with P21/c symmetry for both M2SiO5 (pure host) and M2SiO5:Tb3+ (doped) silicates, irrespective of the nature of metal (Y or Gd), presence or absence of Tb3+ in lattice and change in calcination temperature up to 1050 °C. FTIR analysis was applied to confirm the bonding of prepared materials. The appearance of bands corresponding to SiO4 tetrahedra (880–1020 cm−1) suggest the layered structure and support the diffraction measurements. TEM micrographs confirm the synthesis of spherical nanoparticles with filled morphology, narrow size distribution and slightly agglomerated crystallites of the samples. The elemental composition of prepared materials was determined using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The spectra show peaks only for elements assimilated within the host framework. The photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra of Tb3+-doped samples show 5D4 → 7FJ (J = 3–6) transitions under 254 nm-excitation. The dominant peak at 544 nm for 5D4 → 7F5 transition is responsible for the emission of green light on ultraviolet–visible excitation in both the Tb3+-doped host matrixes. Owing to advantageous properties like intense PL and high crystallinity, these nanophosphors could possess potential applications in the mercury free lighting sources and optoelectronic devices.