Sm³⁺-doped strontium barium borate phosphor for white light emission: Spectroscopic properties and Judd-Ofelt...

This study aims to explore the spectroscopic properties of a Sr_1.0Ba_2.0B₆O₁₂:0.5Sm³⁺ phosphor synthesized using the solid-state reaction method. The morphology and elemental composition of the phosphor were determined using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, respectively. Phase changes and crystallite phases in the phosphor were studied using differential-scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction, respectively. Raman and Fourier-transform infrared spectra were used to identify the molecular vibrations in the phosphor. The energy bandgap and bonding nature of the phosphor were analyzed using the absorption spectrum. The nephelauxetic ratios determined from the absorption peaks revealed the presence of both ionic and covalent bonding in the phosphor. Judd-Ofelt parameters, along with radiative properties of the phosphor, were evaluated using the peaks in the absorption spectrum. Colorimetric analysis using the photoluminescence spectrum showed that the Sr_1.0Ba_2.0B₆O₁₂:0.5Sm³⁺ phosphor emits a cool-white light. The higher values of the spectroscopic quality factor, stimulated-emission cross-section, quantum efficiency, and the white-light emission of the phosphor suggest that Sr_1.0Ba_2.0B₆O₁₂:0.5Sm³⁺ is useful for display and lighting applications.