Cathodoluminescence of YAG:Nd optical nanoceramics in the visible and UV ranges

Results of cathodoluminescence studies of optical YAG:Nd nanoceramics with different microstructure are presented. The composition of the samples was studied by the electron-probe microanalysis. The estimation of the average grain size was performed with the use of scanning electron microscopy and based on X-ray diffraction analysis. Local cathodoluminescence technique was used to collect the emission spectra and decays of emission in the UV and visible range. The “memory effect” in YAG:Nd nanoceramics luminescence was noticed and discussed. In particular, it was observed that the initial electron beam irradiation of sample leads to the increase of luminescence efficiency in the visible and UV ranges. It was confirmed also that the observed effect is long-lasting and remains for years. To understand the mechanism of the effect, the estimation of temperature annealing under continuous irradiation by electron beam was done. The model of memory effect involving trap states was proposed and discussed.