Eu2+-doped AlN-SiC solid-solution phosphors: Synthesis and cathodoluminescence properties

Eu and Si co-doped AlN was reported to be an interesting blue phosphor for field-emission displays (FEDs). In this paper, SiC instead of Si3N4 was used as the Si source. Eu2+-doped AlN-SiC phosphors were prepared by firing the powder mixtures of AlN, SiC, and Eu2O3 at 2050 degrees C for 2 hours under 1-MPa N-2. Solid solutions between AlN and SiC were formed in a wide range, promoting the solution of Eu2+ in AlN. The phosphors showed intense blue emissions under electron-beam excitation, indicative of potential phosphors for FEDs.