NaY(WO4)(2) phosphors with various Eu3+ concentrations were prepared via a molten salt method. The crystal structure and morphology of the phosphors were characterized by means of XRD and field emission scanning electron microscope. The excitation spectra and emission spectra were measured. The energy transfer type between Eu3+ was proved. What's more, the critical energy transfer distance (Rc) and Huang-Rays factor were calculated. The self-generated quenching process of Eu3+ was explained based on Auzel's model, and the intrinsic radiative transition lifetime for D-5(0) level was confirmed. The energy transfer rate between Eu3+ ions was derived on the basis of the fluorescence lifetime. Finally, the refractive index n was calculated. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.