Qin X., Ju Y., Bernhard S., Yao N.
Princeton University, US
Keywords: flame, nanoparticle, photoluminescence, Y2O3:Eu
Nanoscale Y2O3:Eu phosphor particles were synthesized by flame spray pyrolysis method and the effects of precursor solution and annealing treatment were discussed. The flame spray pyrolysis system consists of a spray generator, a coflow burner, quartz reactor, particle collection filter and vacuum pump. The starting solution was prepared by dissolving yttrium and europium nitrate in distilled water, ethanol or propanol alcohol. The structure and morphology of the as-prepared particles were examined using SEM. The photoluminescence (PL) intensity was measured by a spectrophotometer. The particle size can be controlled by varying precursor concentration, flame temperature and residence time. Compared with previous report, SEM shows fine and smooth structure for particles prepared from ethanol alcohol as precursor solution. Upon excitation with 355 nm light, the particles show red emission and the PL intensity of particles using ethanol is 30% stronger than those using water as precursor solution. Annealing particles at 1200C can convert the monoclinic phase into cubic phase. The concentration quenching limit was also increased to 18% mol Eu. It is expected that these particles will be useful in developing emission field or high resolution displays and be used as markers in biomedical research.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2005 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: May 8, 2005
Pages: 9 - 12
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Nanoparticle Synthesis & Applications
ISBN: 0-9767985-1-4