Synthesis and characterization of Dy-doped Zn2SiAl2O4 nanophosphor for color modulation in advanced lighting systems

Abstract

Nanoparticles of Zn2SiAl2O4 infused with Dy3+ were produced through a traditional co-precipitation approach. We investigated the particles' structural attributes and physical characteristics using tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) spectrometry. The XRD outcomes validated the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles and showed the effective replacement of Dy3+ ions in the place of Zn2+ ions within the matrix and with increasing Dy concentration from 0.5 % to 1.25 %, the crystallite size decreased from 84 nm to 53 nm. The SEM visuals offered clarity on the shape, dimension, and spread of these particles. FTIR analysis further confirmed the composition and structure of the nanoparticles by identifying the chemical bonds and functional groups. UV–visible absorption spectroscopy revealed increase in the optical energy bandgap from 4.45 eV to 4.55 eV with increasing Dy3+ content, indicating potential for optical applications. The photoluminescence spectrometry results featured a prominent transition at approximately 646 nm, suggest that the phosphor has the capability to function as a vivid yellow light emitter and demonstrate their potential for application in optoelectronics, photonics, and luminescent materials.