Synthesis and characterization of Eu3+ doped Lu 2O3 nanophosphor using a solution-combustion method

Abstract

Fine Eu3+-doped lutetium oxide (Lu2O 3:Eu3+) nanophosphor were synthesized using a low-temperature solution-combustion method in a methyl-alcohol solution. The characteristics of the nanophosphors synthesized at various sintering temperatures with different Eu3+ concentrations were analyzed to determine the optimum synthesis conditions. Thermogravimetry/differential thermal analysis showed that Lu2O3:Eu3+ crystallizes completely when the dry powder is sintered at 500 °C. The Lu2O3:Eu3+ crystals had a cubic structure and monoclinic phase. The peak position of the luminescence spectrum did not differ with the concentration of Eu or the sintering temperature or atmosphere, whereas the luminescence intensity was strongly dependent on the concentration and sintering conditions. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2009.