Experimental and theoretical study of mechanoluminescence and lyoluminescence of Li3PO4: RE (RE=Dy and Tb) phosphors

Li₃PO₄ phosphors prepared by solid‐state diffusion technique and lyoluminescence (LL) as well as mechanoluminescence (ML) studies are reported. Dy‐ and Tb‐activated phosphors show dosimetric characteristics using LL and ML techniques. The energy levels and hence trapping and detrapping of charge carriers in the material can be studied using ML. Li₃PO₄ phosphor can be used in the dosimetric applications for ionizing radiation. By using the LL technique, the LL characteristics of Li₃PO₄ may be useful for high radiation doses. We also report a more detailed theoretical understanding of the mechanism of LL and ML. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.