Broadband yellow-white and near infrared luminescence from Bi-doped Ba10(PO4)6Cl2 prepared in reductive atmosphere

► Broadband yellow-white and NIR emissions are found from Bi-doped Ba10(PO4)6Cl2. ► Bi+ is considered as the origin of broadband visible and NIR emission. ► The stabilization of Bi+ is attributed to the unique structure of apatite crystal.