Temperature-dependent luminescence characteristics of Dy3+ doped in various crystalline hosts

The effects of the crystalline host and the incorporation of a sensitizer (Er3+, Pr3+) on the temperature-dependent luminescence characteristics of Dy3+ were studied in a temperature range of 300-1650 K. Special emphasis was put on the usability of the respective materials as an optical temperature sensor, especially for extreme environments at high temperatures. Five base hosts, namely YAG, YAP, YSO, YSZ and CASO were evaluated and slightly varied regarding the host compounds (e.g. by adding B3+ -N3-) or by adding a sensitizer. Particle sizes and morphology were studied using scanning electron microscope imaging and X-ray diffractometry. Excitation spectra and temperature-dependent luminescence emission were recorded and analyzed with respect to absolute intensities, lifetime, intensity ratio and sensitivity. The best combination regarding low lifetime and high quenching temperature, absolute intensity and sensitivity was observed for YAP:Dy3+ and variations of YAG:Dy3+ with either incorporation of B3+-N3- in the host compound or the addition of Er3+ as a sensitizer.