Novel low-temperature synthesis of Y2–xO3:Eux3+ nanophosphor using combustion with thioglycerol as fuel for near-UV light-emitting diodes

Luminescent materials used in flat panel displays, compact fluorescent lamps, and light-emitting diodes require high purity, uniform particle size, clean surfaces, spherical shape, and dense morphology to ensure long-term stability. Y₂O₃:Eu³⁺ is a widely studied red phosphor known for its characteristic photoluminescence (PL) emission at 613 nm with near-UV excitation at 392 nm. Many methods have been explored to synthesize Y₂O₃:Eu³⁺ nanoparticles with exceptional purity, consistent phases, and uniform particle sizes. The aim is to synthesize particles with pristine surfaces, spherical shape, and compact morphology. This study focuses on the low-temperature synthesis and PL investigation of Y_2–xO₃:Eu_x³⁺ nanophosphors using combustion with thioglycerol as fuel. The results are compared with Y_2–xO₃:Eu_x³⁺ red nanophosphors synthesized using wet chemical and nitrate combustion methods. The PL characteristics of the Y_2–xO₃:Eu_x³⁺ nanophosphors were analyzed using PL emission spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. These findings highlight the advantageous properties of the synthesized nanophosphors, such as their suitability for solid-state lighting applications in the lamp industry as highly efficient red phosphors. The combination of high purity, uniform particle size, clean surfaces, spherical shape, and dense morphology contributes to their potential for long-term stability and reliable performance in lighting devices.