Synthesis of a Sm³⁺-doped YGa_1.5Al_1.5(BO₃)₄ phosphor via a mechanical activation-assisted solid-state reaction

A Sm³⁺-doped YGa_1.5Al_1.5(BO₃)₄ (abbreviated as YGAB) phosphor was synthesized via a solid-state reaction with mechanical activation assistance in a high-energy density stirred bead mill. The samples were characterized by laser particle size analysis, specific surface area analysis, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and fluorescence spectroscopy. In addition, the photoluminescence characteristics, luminescence decay, thermal stability, and LED application of the phosphors were also investigated. The results show that the mechanical activation of mixed raw materials before calcination can reduce the particle size and the activation energy of crystallization, resulting in the formation of the YGAB crystal phase at a lower calcination temperature. The mechanical activation in grinding can accelerate the subsequent solid-phase reaction, make Sm³⁺ ions more easily diffuse into the YGAB lattice, and improve the crystal structure of the synthesized phosphor, thus enhancing the optical properties of the phosphor. According to the photoluminescence emission (PL) and excitation (PLE) spectra, Sm³⁺ doped in the YGAB lattice can provide an efficient emission under 405 nm excitation. The optimum doping concentration of Sm³⁺ ions is 0.03 mol%. The optimum photoluminescence intensity, quantum yield, and fluorescence lifetime of the phosphor synthesized from mixed raw materials ground for 45 min can be obtained. The temperature-dependent PL spectra show that the emission intensity of the YGAB:0.03Sm³⁺ phosphor at 425 K is 84.7% of its initial intensity at room temperature. It is indicated that the YGAB:0.03Sm³⁺ phosphor synthesized could be used as one of the promising LED lighting materials.