Synthesis and luminescent properties of M2P2O7:Eu3+ (M = Ca, Sr, Ba) phosphors

A series of orange-red phosphors M(2)P(2)o(7): Eu3+ (M = Ca, Sr, Ba) were prepared by traditional solid-state reaction method. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of Ca2P2O7, Sr2P2O7 and Ba2P2O7. Scanning electron-microscopy observation indicated a narrow size-distribution of about 0.6 similar to 1 mu m for the particles with a quadrate shape. Photoluminescence spectra of M2P2O7(M = Ca, Sr, Ba): Eu3+ phosphors showed a strong excitation peak around 393 nm, and Ca2P2O7: Eu3+, Sr2P2O7: Eu3+ and Ba2P2O7: Eu3+ phosphors showed strong emission bands peaking at about 593 nm, which suggests that the Eu3+ ion is occupy the site with center of symmetry.