Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO-Based Phosphors and Related Phosphor Composites in Bulk, Thin Film and Nano Form

Abstract

Phosphors are light emitting solids that play an important role in the lighting industry. The physics of doping suitable elements plays an equally important role in controlling the emission properties. The choice of host lattice is the key in controlling the charge transfer mechanism. Zn2SiO4 is a useful host material, and in this chapter we discuss on the effect of doping in various forms of this host material. Zn2SiO4:Mn powder (bulk) phosphors have been synthesized by sol-gel [1] and solid-state method, and thin films grown by pulsed laser deposition [2]. The optimization parameters like growth temperature, vacuum, and oxygen partial pressure (in case of thin films) that determine the luminescent efficiency of the phosphors will be highlighted. The defect and its related emission in ZnO encapsulated SiO2 nanocomposites [3] synthesized using urea assisted sol-gel techniques projecting toward the fabrication of UV-LED pumped white LED will be discussed in detail.