Photoluminescence properties of a novel green-emitting phosphor Zr1-xO2:xTb3+

In this study, a series of Zr1-xO2:xTb(3+) (0.03 <= x <= 0.13) nanopowders was prepared by the solution combustion method. The microstructure and photoluminescence properties of the Zr1-xO2:xTb(3+) phosphors were studied in accordance with the Tb3+ content and annealing temperature. The Zr1-xO2:xTb(3+) phosphors crystallized in a tetragonal structure. The emission spectra of the Zr1-xO2:xTb(3+) phosphors under 296 nm excitation showed strong emission peaks at 489, 545, 587, and 617 nm, which were attributed to the D-5(4) -> F-7(6), D-5(4)-> F-7(5), D-5(4) -> F-7(4), and D-5(4) -> F-7(3) transitions of Tb3+ ions, respectively. The Zr0.95O2:0.05Tb(3+) phosphor showed the most efficient emission properties. In addition, the emission intensity of the Zr0.93O2:0.05Tb(3+) phosphor was enhanced with an increase in the annealing temperature up to 900 degrees C due to the improved crystallinity and reduced crystal defects in the powders. The optimal Tb3+ content and annealing temperature for the Zr1-xO2:xTb(3+) phosphors were determined to be 0.05 and 900 degrees C, respectively. Zr1-xO2:xTb(3+) showed great potential as a green-emitting phosphor for white light-emitting diodes. Copyright (C) 2014, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.