Luminescence properties and energy transfer process of Sm³⁺–Eu³⁺ co-doped molybdate red-emitting phosphors by hydrothermal method

Abstract

Eu³⁺ and Sm³⁺ co-doped molybdate phosphors have been synthesized via hydrothermal method. The phosphors have the advantages of narrower particle size distribution and regular homogeneous shape. The luminescent properties of the molybdate phosphors were systematically studied. The introduction of Sm³⁺ into the red-emitting phosphors can generate a strong excitation line at 405 nm, originating from the ⁶H_5/2→⁴K_11/2 transition of Sm³⁺, significantly extending the excitation region for matching the near-ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (−400 nm). Energy transfer from Sm³⁺ to Eu³⁺ was observed.