Synthesis and luminescence properties of Sr3MgSi2O8:Ce3+,Tb3+ for application in near ultraviolet excitable white light-emitting-diodes

The alkaline-earth silicate Sr3MgSi2O8:Ce3+,Tb3+ phosphors have been synthesized via conventional high temperature solid-state method. The crystal structure, luminescence properties, morphology of phosphors are investigated systematically. The thermal quenching and concentration quenching mechanisms of phosphors are also discussed. The phosphors can be excited under near ultraviolet light ranging from 200 nm to 450 nm. The calcination temperature and calcination time are significant factors for luminescence property of phosphors. Increasing co-doping Tb3+ makes the emission intensity of Ce3+ decreases proportionally while the emission of Tb3+ increases. It indicates that it exists energy transfer between Ce3+ and Tb3+. The emission wavelength can be tuned from bluish violet region to blue region. The results imply Sr3MgSi2O8:Ce3+,Tb3+ phosphors can be a potential candidate for solid-state lighting.