Influence of processing parameters on the luminescence of sol–gel derived PrPO4

PrPO4 synthesis by the sol–gel process was carried out using an alkoxide route. Powders purity and morphology were analyzed by means of X-ray diffraction, laser granulometry and scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, praseodymium fluorescence in that lattice was recorded by laser induced spectroscopy at room temperature. Upon excitation into the 3P0 high energy level, emission in the red wavelength range is observed from this state as well as from the 1D2 level. Finally, dependence of the phosphorus precursor and hydrolysis rate on the quantum efficiency was investigated.