Photoluminescence in rare earth-doped complex hexafluoride phosphors

In this study, using a simple combustion process and a wet chemical process, fluorides showing intense photoluminescence were prepared and developed as low-cost phosphors. The prepared phosphors were characterized by photoluminescence (PL) techniques. PL emission spectra of the phosphor suggest the presence of Eu3+ as well as Eu2+ ions in LiMgBF6:Eu and Li2NaBF6:Eu lattice sites. This article summarizes the fundamentals and possible applications of optically useful inorganic fluoride with visible photoluminescence of doped Eu3+ and Eu2+ ions. Our results on LiMgBF6:Ce and Li2NaBF6:Ce are also reported. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.