Synthesis of Y2O2SO4 submicron spheres and photoluminescence behaviour with Tb3+ doping

Y2O2SO4 submicron spheres were prepared by facile solid-phase reaction between yttrium sulfate and submicron spherical yttrium oxide for the first time. The influence of the sintering temperature, sintering time on the crystallography and morphology of the Y2O2SO4 submicron spheres were carefully investigated. XRD patterns and SEM images of the as-prepared Y2O2SO4 submicron spheres demonstrated that they had a single monoclinic phase and uniform shapes with an average size of about 300 nm. The formation process of submicron spheres was also discussed. The surface composition, photoluminescence behaviour of Y2O2SO4 submicron spheres were studied by doping with Tb3+. XPS data revealed the samples were composed of Y, S, O, and Tb elements, and the presence of Tb3+ states. The PL results showed that the Y2O2SO4:Tb3+ submicron spheres exhibited the strongest green emission peak at 546 nm on the excitation of 233 nm. It was corresponding to the D-5(4)& RARR;F-7(5) transition of Tb3+ ions. It may be useful as green-emitting phosphors in the lamps and display devices.

Automated summary

Y2O2SO4 submicron spheres were prepared via solid-phase reaction, showing monoclinic phase with uniform shapes. When doped with Tb3+, the spheres exhibited strong green emission peak and could be potential green-emitting phosphors for lamps and display devices.