Preparation of CaF2:U phosphor by solid-state metathesis reaction

CaF2:RE phosphors have received attention of several research workers. CaF2:Sm2+ is well known as a solid-state laser material. CaF2:Dy and CaF2:Tm phosphors are used as phosphors for dosimetry of ionizing radiations through thermoluminescence. A new route to preparation of CaF2 by solid-state metathesis is reported. The method is very fast and CaF2 could be prepared in 10 min. Intense emission attributable to uranate group was observed in synthesized uranium-doped samples.