Synthesis and characterization of Y2O3:Eu3+ phosphors using the Sol-Combustion method

Y2O3:Eu3+ phosphor powders were prepared by the Sol Combustion synthesis method using a sulfur contained organic fuel in an ethanol-aqueous solution. The structural, morphological and optical properties of the as-prepared Y2O3:Eu3+ phosphors were obtained for different fuel to host ratios (S/Y molar ratios). The estimated grain sizes were calculated using the X-ray diffraction patterns were found to vary between 158-180 nm. The grain sizes were found to slightly decrease with the increase of the S/Y molar ratios. From photo luminescent spectra, the main emission peak arising from the D-5(0)-> F-7(2) transition was observed at 626 nm, while the weaker emissions at shorter wavelength values were ascribed to the D-5(1), D-5(2)-> D-7(J) (J=1, 2, 3, ...) transitions of Eu3+. From these emission spectra it was clear that the S/Y molar ratios have significant effects on the maximum intensities and phosphorescence time of these phosphors. (C) 2014 Published by Elsevier B.V.