Photoluminescence and unique magnetoluminescence of transparent (Tb1-xYx)3Al5O12 ceramics

Abstract Luminescent transparent ceramics (Tb1-xYx)3Al5O12 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.5, 0.8) are successfully prepared by a solid-state method with additional hot isostatic pressing (HIP) treatment, and the structure and properties are investigated by XRD, SEM, PL, UV–Vis spectrophotometry and ellipsometry. The Y-containing samples are shown to be solid solution phases between TAG and YAG. The PL intensity is 14 times stronger with the incorporation of 80 mol.% Y, and the 5D4→7F5 emission lifetime of Tb3+ is prolonged from 0.357 to 3.035 ms at room temperature. A unique magnetoluminescence emerges upon the incorporation of Y, showing an interesting emission decrease to 55% as the Y content reaches 80 mol.%. Remarkably, this magnetoluminesence can occur at room temperature without an intense magnetic field. Based on our work, transparent (Tb1-xYx)3Al5O12 ceramics exhibit the potential for applications in green emitters, optical instruments and photoelectric devices. In particular, the magnetoluminescence provides a simple, noncontact and nondestructive route for probing magnetic fields.