Synthesis and characterization of YAG:Ce³⁺ nanophosphor prepared by flame spray pyrolysis

Among the various types of synthesis techniques for phosphors, flame spray pyrolysis (FSP) is a powerful method which is capable of producing particles with good crystallinity and high luminescence efficiency. In this work, we have studied the possibility of producing yellow light emitting Ce³⁺ doped Y₃Al₅O₁₂ (YAG:Ce³⁺) nanophosphor particles using FSP. The challenges in forming YAG arise because of its complex stoichiometry and existence of numerous crystalline states. 3 M of urea was added to increase the flame temperature. The as-prepared nanoparticles were annealed in the temperature range 800°C to 1100°C for 1 hour. As-prepared phosphor particles were found to be YAlO₃ which transformed to YAG when annealed above 900°C. PL intensity of the phosphors increased with increase in annealing temperature. These results indicate the possibility of fabrication of high quality YAG:Ce³⁺ nanophosphor particles via a simple process.