A New Route to Synthesize β-SiAlON:Eu2+ Phosphors for White Light-Emitting Diodes

A simple, highly efficient method of synthesizing beta-SiAlON:Eu2+ phosphors for white light-emitting diodes was reported. The new route was carried out via a combustion synthesis method using Si, SiO2, and Al raw materials, and NaCl as a diluent under nitrogen pressure. The phase purity, photoluminescence properties, and thermal quenching of the phosphors were investigated. The results revealed that the synthesized beta-SiAlON:Eu2+ powders, which comprised rodlike crystals, exhibited high thermal stability: The emission intensity at 160 degrees C was 84% of that measured at room temperature, which indicates that the synthesized beta-SiAlON:Eu2+ phosphors have high potential for application to white LEDs. (C) 2013 The Japan Society of Applied Physics