Blue-red dual emission of ZnGa2-xO4:xCr3+ phosphors with satisfactory thermal stability for plant cultivation

A series of ZnGa2-xO4:xCr(3+) phosphors with blue-red dual light emission were synthesized by microwave-assisted solid-phase method and corresponding characterizations were conducted to investigate its structure, micromorphology, and luminescence performance. Blue-red dual light emission at around 470 nm and 690 nm was successfully achieved. Quenching concentration of Cr3+ in ZnGa2O4 was 2.0 mol% and the theoretical quenching concentration was calculated to be 2.0 mol%. Quenching mechanism was discussed detailedly with the help of Dexter's theory. Emission spectra of optimal ZnGa1.98O4:0.020Cr(3+) phosphor measured at T = 298-473 K were also analyzed, and zero thermal quenching was finally achieved. Both the emission spectral profile of ZnGa1.98O4:0.020Cr(3+) at 298 K and 423 K can match well with the absorption spectra of four biological pigments in plants. All these findings greatly improved the possibility for its application in plant cultivation.

Automated summary

ZnGa2-xO4:xCr(3+) phosphors with blue-red dual light emission were synthesized and characterized. The results showed successful achievement of dual light emission around 470 nm and 690 nm. The study also demonstrated the potential application of the phosphors in plant cultivation.