Structural characterization and influence of calcination temperature on luminescence properties of Sr0.91Mg2Al5.82Si9.18O30: Eu3+ nanophosphors

Abstract Red light emitting Sr 0.91 Mg 2 Al 5.82 Si 9.18 O 30 :Eu 3+ (SMAS: Eu 3+ ) nanophosphors were synthesized by a facile solution-combustion method. The optimal firing temperature and time for obtaining a pure phase of the SMAS host lattice was found to be 1000 °C for 3 h. The structural, morphological, thermal stability and luminescent properties of the nanophosphors were investigated as a function of calcining temperature and by varying the Eu 3+ ion concentration. Powder XRD patterns confirmed the hexagonal crystal system. The photoluminescence (PL) of the 0.5 mol% Eu 3+ doped SMAS exhibited strong and intense red emission (612 nm) corresponding to the 5 D 0  →  7 F J transition which resulted from the occupation of Eu 3+ ions in the SMAS host lattice sites. Based on the dominant red ( 5 D 0  →  7 F 2 ) emission intensity under 394 nm ultra-violet excitation, these nano-luminescent powders are expected to find potential applications in the production of red light for phosphor converted white light emitting diodes and optical display systems.