Structural, photo and thermoluminescence studies of Eu3+ doped orthorhombic YAlO3 nanophosphors

A series of Eu3+ (1-6 mol%) activated YAlO3 nanophosphors have been synthesized by a low temperature solution combustion method using ODH fuel. The structural, morphological, thermo and photoluminescent properties are studied. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns indicate that the phosphors are orthorhombic phase of YAlO3 with small traces of Y3Al5O12 phase. Scanning Electron micrographs show the crystallites are fused together to form dumbbell shape. Transmission Electron micrograph shows the crystallites are nano size in the range 30-45 nm. Photoluminescence studies of Eu doped YAlO3 showed orange red emission (CIE co-ordinates x = 0.645, y = 0.353) due to the D-5(0) -> F-7(j) (j = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4) transitions of Eu3+ ions. The concentration quenching occurs at x = 5 mol%. YAlO3:Eu3+ (5 mol%) exhibit two thermoluminescence (TL) glow peaks around 229 and 324 degrees C respectively. TL response with different c-doses show a good linear response and low fading suggesting that Eu3+ activated YAlO3 is suitable for radiation dosimetry applications. The kinetic parameters (E, b, s) are estimated using peak shape method and discussed in detail. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.