Fluorescent and chromatic properties of visible-emitting phosphor KLa(MoO4)2:Sm3+

Sm3+ doped KLa(MoO4)2 phosphors were synthesized via a high-temperature solid-state reaction. The crystal structure of the phosphors was examined with XRD and a pure phase was confirmed. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra display dependence on both excitation wavelength and Sm3+ doping concentration. The concentration quenching behavior was studied and the possible relaxation channel for self-quenching of luminescence centers was discussed. The electric dipole–dipole interaction is confirmed to be the dominant mechanism for energy transfer between Sm3+ ions on the basis of both Van Uitert’s and Dexter’s models. The chromatic characteristics are also found to be dependent on both excitation wavelength and Sm3+ doping concentration.

► KLa(MoO4)2:Sm3+ phosphors were synthesized via a solid-state reaction.
► Crystal structure of the phosphors was characterized by XRD.
► Concentration quenching mechanisms and possible relaxation channels were discussed.
► Chromatic characteristics depend on excitation wavelength and doping concentration.