Synthesis and photoluminescence properties of MgY₂B₂O₇:Sm³⁺ phosphor

The orange light emitting MgY₂B₂O₇:xSm 3+ (x = 0.001, 0.002, 0.005, 0.01 and 0.02) phosphors were successfully synthesized via solution combustion method using urea as fuel. The phase purity and surface morphology of the as-prepared material was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and a scanning electronic microscope (SEM). Additionally, Photoluminescence Excitation (PL), Emission (PLE) Properties studied under ultraviolet (UV) excitation (300–450 nm). The XRD pattern of prepared phosphor confirmed the formation of a crystalline borate host with minor secondary phases. The average particle size of prepared phosphor was observed in submicron (1–5 µm) range. The excitation and emission spectra of prepared phosphor were monitored at 608 and 405 nm respectively. The PL emission spectra of prepared MgY₂B₂O₇:xSm 3+ phosphor consists of series of sharp lines peak at 568 and 608 nm, corresponding to the 4 G 5/2 → 6 H 5/2 and 4 G 5/2 → 6 H 7/2 transitions of Sm 3+ ion respectively. The optimum PL intensity is obtained at 0.01 mol of Sm 3+ ion at 405 nm excitation. The CIE (Commission International de l′Eclairage) coordinates of prepared phosphor were calculated and found to X = 0.659, Y= 0.340. Hence the MgY₂B₂O₇:xSm 3+ has great potential in solid state lighting and light-emitting diode applications.