Eu(2+) and Eu(3+) co-activated LaAlO3 phosphor: synthesis and tuned luminescence

Sr(2+) and Si(4+) ion doped LaAlO3:Eu phosphors were synthesized through a high-temperature solid-state reaction route. Their phase component and photoluminescence properties were investigated. Under ultraviolet (UV) light excitation, the phosphors show simultaneously blue emission of the Eu(2+) ion and orange-red emission of the Eu(3+) ion. The relative emission intensity of both Eu(2+) and Eu(3+) ions can be tuned by changing the doping concentration of the Sr(2+), Si(4+) and Eu(3+) ions. In contrast to the Sr(2+) ion, the incorporation of Si(4+) ion can effectively enhance the emission of Eu(2+). The optimal doping concentration of the Eu(3+) and Si(4+) ions are about 0.02 and 0.03, respectively. The results indicate that the phosphor may be a potential candidate for white LED lighting applications.