Novel Tb³⁺-doped LaAl₂B₄O₁₀ phosphors: Structural analysis, luminescent properties, and energy transfer mechanism

Abstract

This study explores the structural and luminescent properties of terbium (Tb³⁺)-doped lanthanum aluminium borate (LaAl₂B₄O₁₀, abbreviated as LAB) phosphors, a novel host lattice for Tb³⁺ doping. LAB:Tb³⁺ phosphors, with varying dopant concentrations, were synthesized using a microwave-assisted combustion synthesis approach and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Rietveld refinement, and photoluminescence spectroscopy at both room and low temperatures. The structural analysis confirmed the hexagonal crystal structure of LAB and revealed successful incorporation of Tb³⁺ ions without altering the fundamental lattice. Luminescence studies demonstrated that the LAB:Tb³⁺ phosphors show strong green emission primarily attributed to the 5D4→7F5 transition of Tb³⁺. The optimal doping concentration was determined to be 5 wt% Tb³⁺, which provided maximum luminescence efficiency. This concentration also allowed for a critical study of energy transfer mechanisms within the phosphor, revealing dipole-dipole interactions with a critical distance of 9.80 Å between Tb³⁺ ions. Additionally, the CIE chromaticity coordinates of LAB:0.05 Tb³⁺ were precisely determined to be (0.289, 0.4460), indicating the potential for high-quality green emission suitable for solid-state lighting and display technologies. This work not only demonstrates the potential of LAB:Tb3+ as a highly efficient green luminescent material, but also sheds light on the mechanisms responsible for energy transfer and concentration quenching.