The Structure and Photoluminescence Properties of Ca3Si2O7: Eu2+ Phosphor
A series of yellow-emitting phosphors based on a silicate host matrix, Ca3-xSi2O7: xEu2+, were prepared by solid-state reaction method. The structure and photoluminescent properties of the phosphors were investigated. The XRD results show that the Eu2+ substitution of Ca2+ does not change the structure of Ca3Si2O7 host. The SEM images display that phosphors aggregate obviously and the shape of the phosphor particle is irregular. The EDX results reveal that the phosphors consist of Ca, Si, O, and Eu elements. The Ca3-xSi2O7: xEu2+ phosphors can be excited at wavelength of 300-490 nm, which is suitable for the emission band of near ultraviolet or blue light-emitting-diode (LED) chips. The phosphors exhibit a broad emission region from 520 to 650 nm and the emission peak centered at 568 nm. The phosphor for has the strongest excitation and emission intensity, and the energy transfer style between Eu2+ ions is quadrupole-quadrupole interaction for higher concentration Eu2+ doped Ca3Si2O7 phosphor. The Ca3-xSi2O7: xEu2+ phosphors can be used as candidates for white LEDs.