Spectral modifications and enhancement of red light yield tailored by Y³⁺ incorporation in the SrGd_1.94Eu_0.06O₄ system

The enhancement in luminescence efficiency and spectral tuning due to Y³⁺ incorporation in the SrGd_1.94Eu_0.06O₄ phosphor is reported. An auto-combustion method was adopted to synthesize the samples. The structural, morphological and luminescence properties were examined by means of X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and photoluminescence (PL) studies. The substitution of Gd³⁺ ions by Y³⁺ ions modulates the sensitizing effects of Gd³⁺ ions and also causes lattice shrinkage which alters the local crystal structure and improves the red light yield of Eu³⁺ ions. The spectroscopic modification occurring due to the incorporation of Y³⁺ ions was investigated with the help of Judd–Ofelt calculations. Temperature dependent PL studies were performed to investigate the thermal stability of the samples. The present research indicates that the SrGd_1.94−xY_xEu_0.06O₄ system can be used as a suitable red component for display and lighting applications.