Phase transformation, morphology evolution and luminescence property variation in Y2O3: Eu hollow microspheres

► We report a general and facile method for the synthesis of Y2O3: Eu hollow microspheres. ► This method may be of great significance in the synthesis of many other hollow spherical materials. ► Phase, morphology and luminescence property were found to be strongly dependent on temperature and pH. ► The evolution process under various temperatures and pH values were discussed. ► The sample shows a strong red emission under short UV irradiation, and the lifetime is determined to be 7.0 ms.