Solid-state Synthesis of a Luminescent Material Based on Strontium Aluminate Doped with Rare Earths

Abstract

In this study, the processing of a luminescent ceramic material based on strontium aluminate doped with rare earths (Europium and Dysprosium) was carried out. For this purpose, an intense mixing of the precursor materials (Al, Al2O3 and SrCO3) was carried out, with the addition of Europium and Dysprosium. After mechanical milling, precursor powders have sizes smaller than 1 micrometer, and there is a good distribution of powder size. The presence of aluminum in the precursor materials is explained by the desire to obtain nanometric alumina from it, according to the aluminum oxide bonding reaction process (RBAO). The progress of Al2O3 and SrAl2O4 formation was monitored by XRD analysis of the formation of intermediate phases during heat treatment through interrupted tests at different temperatures. Thermogravimetric analysis was also carried out to determine the oxidation temperatures of Al and decomposition of SrCO3. Finally, the analysis by optical emission spectroscopy indicates wavelengths in agreement with the electronic structure of the elements in the SrAl2O4:EuDy.