YNbO4:RE3+ (RE = Eu, Sm, Pr, Dy) phosphors: The luminescence properties and The energy transfer between the host and the RE3+ ions

Abstract Eu3+, Sm3+, Pr3+, and Dy3+ doped YNbO4 phosphors were synthesized by the solid-state reaction, and the luminescence properties and the energy transfer from the host YNbO4 to the RE3+ ions were systemically studied by spectra techniques and decay curves. The host exhibits a blue emission band (405 nm) excited at 260 nm. The RE3+ ions show their typically emission peaks when doped into YNbO4. The excitation band peaking at 260 nm appeared in all of the four series phosphors when monitored by the emission of the RE3+ ions. Moreover, the shortened lifetimes of YNbO4:RE3+ also demonstrates the energy transfer from the host YNbO4 to the RE3+ ions. And these phosphors show excellent thermal stability except for YNbO4:Pr3+.