Influence of processing parameters on the luminescence of Eu3+ activated YTa1−xNbxO4 phosphors by a molten salt method

Red emissive phosphors of YTa1−xNbxO4:Eu3+ (x=0-1) have been successfully synthesized by a molten salt method. Powder characteristics were studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The effects of Nb concentration (x), flux nature and firing temperature on photoluminescence behavior of YTa1−xNbxO4:Eu3+ were extensively investigated. The results showed that the photoluminescence spectra of the samples exhibited strong red emissions (615 nm) upon the ultraviolet excitation and the emission intensities strongly dependent on the host-lattice composition and particle morphology.