Blue emission of Ce3+ in lanthanide silicon oxynitride phosphors

Ce3+-activated lanthanide silicon oxynitride (La5Si3O12N, La4SiO7N2, LaSiO2N, and La3Si8O4N11) phosphors were prepared by firing the mixture of La2O3, Si3N4, SiO2, and CeO2 at 1500-1600 degrees C under a 0.5 MPa nitrogen atmosphere. Diffuse reflection spectrum, photoluminescence spectra, and temperature-dependent luminescence of these phosphors are presented in this work. A blue emission of Cc 31 in all lanthanide silicon oxynitrides was observed under ultraviolet irradiation, which is strongest in La3Si8O4N11:Ce3+. The concentration quenching and thermal quenching of the samples were discussed.