Preparation, characterization, and optical properties of nano- and submicron-sized Y2O3:Eu3+ phosphors

Ultrafine Y2O3:Eu3+ phosphors were prepared by a modified solution combustion method. The as-prepared samples with sizes of 17.6–80 nm (nanophosphors) and 300 nm (submicron phosphors) were characterized by x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The emission spectra of the samples are unchanged in comparison with that of standard material. The excitation spectra show a redshift in the charge-transfer-state band and a blueshift in the host gap band. In relation to commercial sample, the relative luminescence intensities of nano- and submicron phosphors are increased sufficiently to 64.4% and 93.6%, respectively. Higher quenching concentration of the activator Eu3+ ion was observed in the nanophosphor than that in the phosphor synthesized by solid state reaction.