Preparation and properties of Pr3+/Ce3+:YAG phosphors using triethanolamine as dispersant and pH regulator

Pr3+/Ce3+:YAG precursors were co-precipitated using triethanolamine as dispersant and pH regulator. The different dosages of triethanolamine (D) vs. the properties of Pr3+/Ce3+:YAG phosphors were discussed. When D = 0.5 vol%, the pH of titration process was controlled in the range of similar to 7.94-8.16 to guarantee the uniform distribution of Al, Y, Ce and Pr in the precursors. The relatively higher pH could decrease the loss of Ce and Pr in the precursors and increase the particle size of the obtained powders, which was beneficial to the enhancement of luminescent intensity. Therefore, the precursors directly converted to pure-phase YAG at 900A degrees C, and the phosphors calcined at 1000A degrees C showed the best dispersity due to the dispersion effect of triethanolamine and the most excellent luminescent property. When D aeyen 2 vol%, although pure-phase YAG was detected, the emission intensity of the phosphors decreased due to the decrease of dispersity and purity. Moreover, the co-doped Pr3+ enhanced the red emission of Pr3+/Ce3+:YAG phosphors.