Crystal structure and characteristic luminescence properties investigation of novel red-emitting phosphor Na 3 MgZr(PO 4 ) 3 :Eu 3+ for white light-emitting diodes

A series of novel red emission phosphors Na 3 MgZr(PO 4 ) 3 :Eu 3+ was synthesized by solid state reaction. The phase purity, crystal structure of Na 3 MgZr(PO 4 ) 3 host and the site occupancy behaviour of Eu 3+ were investigated through X-ray diffraction refinement and series X-ray diffraction patterns analysis. The structure and temperature related luminescence properties were studied in detail by photoluminescence excitation, emission spectra and decay times. Upon 393 nm excitation, Na 3 MgZr(PO 4 ) 3 :Eu 3+ phosphor can exhibit strong red emission dominated at 611 nm ( 5 D 0 – 7 F 2 transitions) with excellent thermal stability. The thermal stability property and the quenching mechanism were investigated. The observed abnormal transitions from 5 D 1 energy level were discussed. The results indicated that Na 3 MgZr(PO 4 ) 3 :Eu 3+ could be a suitable red-emitting phosphor candidate for white light emitting diodes.