Synthesis of SrTiO3:Al, Pr phosphors from a complex precursor polymer and their luminescent properties

Red emitting Pr3+, Al3+ doped SrTiO3 phosphor was synthesized by a polymeric complex method using metallic nitrates, ethylene glycol and citric acid. SrTiO3 phosphor powder with a large surface area, small particle size and low agglomeration was formed at a low temperature of 600°C. Different particle growth tendency was also observed both above and below 900°C. The luminescent properties of SrTiO3:Al, Pr phosphor were investigated by photoluminescence. Under 359 nm excitation, SrTiO3:Al, Pr phosphor exhibited a strong red emission, peaking at about 620 nm. The intensity of the excitation spectra was enhanced by the addition of Al3+ ions. The luminescence mechanism may be related to the interaction between Pr3+ and Al3+ ions. Al3+ ions absorb the exciting radiation, and this absorbed energy is transferred to the Pr3+ ions and then emitted from the Pr3+ ions.