Photoluminescence properties of a novel green-emitting phosphor Zr1−xO2:xTb3+

In this study, a series of Zr1−xO2:xTb3+ (0.03 ≤ x ≤ 0.13) nanopowders was prepared by the solution combustion method. The microstructure and photoluminescence properties of the Zr1−xO2:xTb3+ phosphors were studied in accordance with the Tb3+ content and annealing temperature. The Zr1−xO2:xTb3+ phosphors crystallized in a tetragonal structure. The emission spectra of the Zr1−xO2:xTb3+ phosphors under 296 nm excitation showed strong emission peaks at 489, 545, 587, and 617 nm, which were attributed to the 5D4 → 7F6, 5D4 → 7F5, 5D4 → 7F4, and 5D4 → 7F3 transitions of Tb3+ ions, respectively. The Zr0.95O2:0.05Tb3+ phosphor showed the most efficient emission properties. In addition, the emission intensity of the Zr0.95O2:0.05Tb3+ phosphor was enhanced with an increase in the annealing temperature up to 900 °C due to the improved crystallinity and reduced crystal defects in the powders. The optimal Tb3+ content and annealing temperature for the Zr1−xO2:xTb3+ phosphors were determined to be 0.05 and 900 °C, respectively. Zr1−xO2:xTb3+ showed great potential as a green-emitting phosphor for white light-emitting diodes.