Zr4+ Co-Dopant Enhancing Afterglow Green Phosphor of Zn2SiO4: Mn2+

A new afterglow green phosphor of Zn2SiO4: Mn2+, Zr4+ was prepared by high temperature solid-state method. Effects of various preparation techniques on the crystal characteristics, luminescent properties and afterglow performance have been investigated systematically. The phosphor powders were further investigated by photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra (PL) and brightness meter. The results showed that the PL of Zn2SiO4: Mn2+, Zr4+ was observed in the green region due to transitions from the 4T1g(G) to the 5A1g(S) configuration of the Mn2+ ions. This phosphor showed obvious long-lasting phosphorescence that could be clearly seen with naked eyes in a dark room for more than 2h after the irradiation source has been removed. The possible mechanism of this phosphor was also investigated based on the TL measurements.