Synthesis of CaAl2O4:Eu,Nd long persistent phosphor by combustion processes and its optical properties

Eu2+,Nd3+ co-doped calcium aluminate with high brightness and long persistent luminescence was prepared by the combustion method. The luminescent properties of CaAl2O4-based luminescent materials have been studied systematically. The phosphor powders were further investigated by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra (PL) and brightness meter. The analytical results indicated that the phase of CaAl2O4 was formed when the initiating combustion temperature was 400 degrees C. The broad band UV excited luminescence of the CaAl2O4:Eu2+ Nd3+ was observed at the blue region (lambda(max) = 440 nm) due to transitions from the 4f(6)5d(1) to the 4f(7) configuration of the Eu2+ ion. The decay time of the persistence indicated that the persistent luminescence phosphor has bright phosphorescence and maintains a long duration. (C) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.