Preparation and spectroscopic properties of Y2O3:Eu3+ nanopowders and ceramics

Y2O3:Eu3+ powders were prepared by combustion method with and without gel process. The crystal structures and morphologies of the powders were studied by XRD, SEM and HRTEM. The combustion-derived powders were sintered into ceramics in vacuum and then in N2 atmosphere without any additives. SEM images indicate that the ceramics derived from different powders have different microstructures. Excitation and emission spectra were recorded for both powders and ceramics. Pronounced changes in excitation spectra of them were observed.