Search

Ionoluminescence (IL) and photoluminescence (PL) spectra for different rare earth ions (Sm3+ and Dy3+) activated YAlO3 single crystals have been induced with 100 MeV Si7+ ions with fluence of 7.81×1012 ions cm−2. Prominent IL and PL emission peaks in the range 550–725 nm in Sm3+ and 482–574 nm in Dy3+ were recorded. Variation of IL intensity in Dy3+ doped YAlO3 single crystals was studied in the fluence range 7.81×1012–11.71×1012 ions cm−2. IL intensity is found to be high in lower ion fluences and it decreases with increase in ion fluence due to thermal quenching as a result of an increase in the sample temperature caused by ion beam irradiation. Thermoluminescence (TL) spectra were recorded for fluence of 5.2×1012 ions cm−2 on pure and doped crystals at a warming rate of 5 °C s−1 at room temperature. Pure crystals show two glow peaks at 232 (Tg1) and 328 °C (Tg2). However, in Sm3+ doped crystals three glow peaks at 278 (Tg1), 332 (Tg2) and 384 °C (Tg3) and two glow peaks at 278 (Tg1) and 331 °C (Tg2) in Dy3+ was recorded. The kinetic parameters (E, b s) were estimated using glow peak shape method. The decay of IL intensity was explained by excitation spike model.

Thermoluminescence (TL) measurements were carried out on undoped and Mn2+ doped (0.1 mol%) yttrium aluminate (YAlO3) nanopowders using gamma irradiation in the dose range 1–5 kGy. These phosphors have been prepared at furnace temperatures as low as 400 °C by using the combustion route. Powder X-ray diffraction confirms the orthorhombic phase. SEM micrographs show that the powders are spherical in shape, porous with fused state and the size of the particles appeared to be in the range 50–150 nm. Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) studies reveal that Mn ions occupy the yttrium site and the valency of manganese remains as Mn2+. The photoluminescence spectrum shows a typical orange-to-red emission at 595 nm and suggests that Mn2+ ions are in strong crystalline environment. It is observed that TL intensity increases with gamma dose in both undoped and Mn doped samples. Four shouldered TL peaks at 126, 240, 288 and 350 °C along with relatively resolved glow peak at 180 °C were observed in undoped sample. However, the Mn doped samples show a shouldered peak at 115 °C along with two well defined peaks at ∼215 and 275 °C. It is observed that TL glow peaks were shifted in Mn doped samples. The kinetic parameters namely activation energy (E), order of kinetics (b), frequency factor (s) of undoped, and Mn doped samples were determined at different gamma doses using the Chens glow peak shape method and the results are discussed in detail.

Tin (Sn) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films were synthesized by sol-gel spin coating method using zinc acetate di-hydrate and tin chloride di-hydrate as the precursor materials. The films were deposited on glass and silicon substrates and annealed at different temperatures in air ambient. The agglomeration of grains was observed by the addition of Sn in ZnO film with an average grain size of 60 nm. The optical properties of the films were studied using UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometer. The optical band gap energies were estimated at different concentrations of Sn. The MOS capacitors were fabricated using Sn doped ZnO films. The capacitance-voltage (C-V), dissipation vs. voltage (D-V) and current-voltage (I-V) characteristics were studied and the electrical resistivity and dielectric constant were estimated. The porosity and surface area of the films were increased with the doping of Sn which makes these films suitable for opto-electronic applications. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hexagonal Dy(OH)3 and cubic Dy2O3 nanorods were prepared by hydrothermal method. Dy(OH)3 nanorods was directly obtained at 180 °C for 20 h after hydrothermal treatment whereas subsequently heat treatment at 750 °C for 2 h gives pure cubic Dy2O3. SEM micrographs reveal that needle shaped rods with different sizes were observed in both the phases. TEM results also confirm this. The TL response of hexagonal Dy(OH)3 and cubic Dy2O3 nanorods have been analyzed for γ-irradiation over a wide range of exposures (1–5 kGy). TL glow peak intensity increases with γ dose in both the phases. The activation energy (E), order of kinetics (b), and frequency factor (s) for both the phases have been determined using Chen's peak shape method. The simple glow curve shape, structure and linear response to γ-irradiation over a large span of exposures makes the cubic Dy2O3 as a useful dosimetric material to estimate high exposures of γ-rays.

Superhydrophobic coatings with a static water contact angle (WCA)150° were prepared by modifying ZnO nanoparticles with stearic acid (ZnO@SA). ZnO nanoparticles of size ∼14nm were prepared by solution combustion method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies reveal that as prepared ZnO has hexagonal wurtzite structure whereas the modified coatings convert to zinc stearate. Field emission scanning electron micrographs (FE-SEM) show the dual morphology of the coatings exhibiting both particles and flakes. The flakes are highly fluffy in nature with voids and nanopores. Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectrum shows the stearate ion co-ordinates with Zn(2+) in the bidentate form. The surface properties such as surface free energy (γ(p)) and work of adhesion (W) of the unmodified and modified ZnO coatings have been evaluated. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy reveals that surface defects play a major role in the wetting behavior.

This paper reports on the thermo (TL), iono (IL) and photoluminescence (PL) properties of nanocrystalline CaSiO 3 :Eu 3+ (1–5 mol %) bombarded with 100 MeV Si 7+ ions for the first time. The effect of different dopant concentrations and influence of ion fluence has been discussed. The characteristic emission peaks 5 D 0 → 7 F J ( J =0, 1, 2, 3, 4) of Eu 3+ ions was recorded in both PL (1×10 11 –1×10 13 ions cm −2 ) and IL (4.16×10 12 –6.77×10 12 ions cm −2 ) spectra. It is observed that PL intensity increases with ion fluence, whereas in IL the peaks intensity increases up to fluence 5.20×10 12 ions cm −2 , then it decreases. A well resolved TL glow peak at ∼304 °C was recorded in all the ion bombarded samples at a warming rate of 5 °C s −1 . The TL intensity is found to be maximum at 5 mol% Eu 3+ concentration. Further, TL intensity increases sub linearly with shifting of glow peak towards lower temperature with ion fluence.

A comparative study of spherical and rod-like nanocrystalline GdO:Eu (GdEuO) red phosphors prepared by solution combustion and hydrothermal methods have been reported. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) results confirm the as-formed product in combustion method showing mixed phase of monoclinic and cubic of GdO:Eu. Upon calcinations at 800C for 3 h, dominant cubic phase was achieved. The as-formed precursor hydrothermal product shows hexagonal Gd(OH):Eu phase and it converts to pure cubic phase of GdO:Eu on calcination at 600C for 3 h. TEM micrographs of hydrothermally prepared cubic GdO:Eu phase shows nanorods with a diameter of 15 nm and length varying from 50 to 150 nm, whereas combustion product shows the particles to be of irregular shape, with different sizes in the range 50-250 nm. Dominant red emission (612 nm) was observed in cubic GdO:Eu which has been assigned to transition. However, in hexagonal Gd(OH):Eu, emission peaks at 614 and 621 nm were observed. The strong red emission of cubic GdO:Eu nanophosphors by hydrothermal method are promising for high performance display materials. The variation in optical energy bandgap () was noticed in as-formed and heat treated systems in both the techniques. This is due to more ordered structure in heat treated samples and reduction in structural defects.

Low temperature solution combustion method was employed to synthesize Dy2O3 nanophosphors using two different fuels (sugar and oxalyl dihydrazine (ODH)). Powder X-ray diffraction confirm pure cubic phase and the estimated particle size from Scherrer's method in sugar and ODH fuel was found to be 26 and 78 nm, respectively, and are in close agreement with those obtained using TEM and W-H plot analysis. SEM micrographs reveal porous, irregular shaped particles with large agglomeration in both the fuels. An optical band gap of 5.24 eV and 5.46 eV was observed for Dy2O3 for sugar and ODH fuels, respectively. The blueshift observed in sugar fuel is attributed to the particles size effect. Thermoluminescence (TL) response of cubic Dy2O3 nanophosphors prepared by both fuels was examined using gamma and UV radiations. The thermoluminescence of sugar used samples shows a single glow peak at 377 degrees C for 1-4 kGy gamma irradiations. When dose is increased to 5 kGy, two more shouldered peaks were observed at 245 and 310 degrees C. However, in TL of ODH used samples, a single glow peak at 376 degrees C was observed. It is observed that TL intensity is found to be more in sugar used samples. In UV irradiated samples a single glow peak at 365 degrees C was recorded in both the fuels with a little variation in TL intensity. The trapping parameters were estimated by different methods and the results are discussed. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

CdSiO(3):Dy(3+) (1-9mol%) nanophosphors were prepared for the first time using the solution combustion method. The process of monoclinic phase formation was investigated by PXRD, TG-DTA and FTIR. The results show that the phase formation temperature of combustion-derived monoclinic CdSiO(3) is found to be lower as compared to the powders prepared by solid-state and sol-gel methods. It was observed that the average crystallite size calculated by Debye-Scherrer's formula and Williamson-Hall (W-H) plot are well comparable and was found to be in the range of 35-70 nm. Scanning electron micrographs indicate that there exist circular microcrystalline particles. It is observed that the optical energy gap is widened with the increase of Dy(3+) ion dopant. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra exhibit characteristic transitions of Dy(3+) due to (4)F(9/2)→(6)H(15/2) (blue) and (4)F(9/2)→(6)H(13/2) (yellow) regions. The thermoluminescence (TL) glow curve of CdSiO(3):Dy(3+) nano powder exposed to UV irradiation exhibited one main peak centered at 170°C. The intensity of the main peak increases up to the dose of 20 min then it decreases. The glow curves were analyzed by the glow peak shape method and the estimated trap parameters are discussed.

Nanocrystalline Nd(2)O(3):Ni(2+) (2 mol%) phosphor has been prepared by a low temperature (∼400°C) solution combustion method, in a very short time (

CaSiO(3):Dy(3+) (1-5 mol%) nanophosphors have been prepared by a low temperature solution combustion method. The structural and luminescence (ionoluminescence; IL and photoluminescence; PL) studies have been carried out for pristine and ion irradiated samples. The XRD patterns of pristine sample show a prominent peak at (320) for the monoclinic structure of β-CaSiO(3). Upon ion irradiation, the intensity of the prominent peak is decreased at the fluence of 7.81 × 10(12)ions cm(-2) and at higher fluence of 15.62 × 10(12)ions cm(-2), the prominent peak completely vanishes. The decrease in peak intensity might be due to the stress induced point defects. On-line IL and in situ PL studies have been carried out on pelletized samples bombarded with 100 MeV Si(7+) ions with fluences in the range (7.81-15.62)×10(12)ions cm(-2). The characteristic emission peaks at 481,574, 664 and 754 nm recorded in both IL and PL are attributed to the luminescence centers activated by Dy(3+) ions. It is found that IL and PL emissions intensity decreases with increase in Si(7+) ion fluence. The decrease in intensity can be due to the destruction of Si-O-Si and O-Si-O type species present on the surface of the sample. FTIR studies also confirm the Si-O-Si and O-Si-O type species observed to be sensitive for swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiated samples.

The LaAl11O18:Mn2+ powder phosphor has been prepared using a self-propagating synthesis. Formation and homogeneity of the LaAl11O18:Mn2+ phosphor has been verified by X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray analysis respectively. The EPR spectra of Mn2+ ions exhibit resonance signals with effective g values at g≈4.8 and g≈1.978. The signal at g≈1.978 exhibits six-line hyperfine structure and is due to Mn2+ ions in an environment close to tetrahedral symmetry, whereas the resonance at g≈4.8 is attributed to the rhombic surroundings of the Mn2+ ions. It is observed that the number of spins participating in resonance for g≈1.978 increases with decreasing temperature obeying the Boltzmann law. Upon 451 nm excitation, the photoluminescence spectrum exhibits a green emission peak at 514 nm due to 4T1 (G)→6A1 (S) transition of Mn2+ ions. The crystal field parameter Dq and Racah inter-electronic repulsion parameters B and C have been evaluated from the excitation spectrum.

The red emitting Cr3+ activated α-Al2O3 powder phosphor has been prepared by easy combustion reactions from mixed metal nitrate reactants and urea with ignition temperatures of 500 °C. The as-synthesized powder was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared techniques. The X-ray diffraction pattern reveals that the phosphor crystallized in the hexagonal α-Al2O3 phase directly from the combustion reaction. The EPR spectrum exhibits an intense resonance signal with effective g value at g=3.33 along with a few weak resonance signals with effective g values at g=13.7, 2.34, 1.95, 1.49, and 1.26. The spin concentration (N) and its paramagnetic susceptibility (χ) have been evaluated. The excitation spectrum consists of two broad intense bands at 415 nm and 555 nm and are assigned to 4A2g (F)→4T1g (F) and 4A2g (F)→4T2g (F) transitions, respectively. The intense fluorescence peak around 691 nm is attributed to 2E g →4A2g transition of Cr3+ ion. By correlating EPR and optical data, the crystal field splitting parameter (Dq), Racah inter-electronic repulsion parameter (B) have been evaluated and discussed. The EPR and optical studies reveal that Cr3+ ions are occupying in Al3+ sites in octahedral coordination.

Zn(1−x)Fe(x)O(1+0.5x) (x = 0.5–5 mol%) nanoparticles were synthesized by a low temperature solution combustion route. The structural characterization of these nanoparticles by PXRD, SEM and TEM confirmed the phase purity of the samples and indicated a reduction in the particle size with increase in Fe content. A small increase in micro strain in the Fe doped nanocrystals is observed from W–H plots. EPR spectrum exhibits an intense resonance signal with effective g values at g ≈ 2.0 with a sextet hyperfine structure (hfs) besides a weak signal at g ≈ 4.13. The signal at g ≈ 2.0 with a sextet hyperfine structure might be due to manganese impurity where as the resonance signal at g ≈ 4.13 is due to iron. The optical band gap Eg was found to decrease with increase of Fe content. Raman spectra exhibit two non-polar optical phonon (E2) modes at low and high frequencies at 100 and 435 cm−1 in Fe doped samples. These modes broaden and disappear with increase of Fe dopant concentration. TL measurements of γ-irradiated (1–5 kGy) samples show a main glow peak at 368 °C at a warming rate of 6.7 °Cs−1. The thermal activation parameters were estimated from Glow peak shape method. The average activation energy was found to be in the range 0.34–2.81 eV.

Ionoluminescence (IL) studies of two natural kyanite (Al(2)SiO(5)) minerals collected from different regions of India was carried out using 120 MeV Ag(9+) ions in the fluence range of 1.50-10.5 × 10(11)ions/cm(2). Identical emission peaks were observed in both the samples at ~416, 463, 530-540 nm along with other emission peaks at ~689 nm, 706 nm (sharp) and 770 nm (broad). The sharp emission peaks at 689 nm correspond to R lines of Cr(3+) impurities and are related to transition of (2)E(g)→(4)A(2g). The sharp and broad emission peaks in the range of 706-770 nm are attributed to Fe(3+) impurities and are related to the transition of (4)T(1g)→(6)A(1g). The peak in the range of 530-540 nm is attributed to Mn(2+) impurities and is related to the transition of (4)T(1)→(6)A(1). IL peak intensity decreases with the Ag(9+) ion fluence which might be due to the thermal quenching/amorphization, caused by the ion beam irradiation. The amorphization in the sample was explained with the help of thermal spike model (TSM). These results demonstrated that IL is a very sensitive technique for impurity characterization and differentiating the origin of minerals.

ZnO:Al thin films were prepared on glass and silicon substrates by the sol-gel spin coating method. The x-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that a polycrystalline phase with a hexagonal structure appeared after annealing at 400 degrees C for 1 h. The transmittance increased from 91 to about 93% from pure ZnO films to ZnO film doped with 1 wt% Al and then decreased for 2 wt% Al. The optical band gap energy increased as the doping concentration was increased from 0.5 wt% to 1 wt% Al. The metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) capacitors were fabricated using ZnO films deposited on silicon (100) substrates and electrical properties such as current versus voltage (I-V) and capacitance versus voltage (C-V) characteristics were studied. The electrical resistivity decreased and the leakage current increased with an increase of annealing temperature. The dielectric constant was found to be 3.12 measured at 1 MHz. The dissipation value for the film annealed at 300 degrees C was found to be 3.1 at 5 V. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The microstructure, mechanical, EPR and optical properties of transparent MnO 2 doped lithium disilicate (LDS) glass–ceramics prepared by melt quenching and controlled crystallization, have been studied. The microstructure of the glass–ceramics has been characterized using FE-SEM, TEM, FT-IR and XRD techniques. FE-SEM micrographs show elongated, highly interlocked, dense (∼80 vol.%) nanocrystals of LDS with an average size ∼100 nm. XRD and FT-IR studies reveal that the only crystalline phase formed after heat-treatment at 700 °C for 1 h is LDS. A good combination of average microhardness ∼5.6 GPa, high fracture toughness ∼2.8 MPa m 1/2 , 3-point flexural strength ∼250 MPa and moderate elastic modulus 65 GPa has been obtained. The EPR spectra of both LDS glasses and glass–ceramics exhibit resonance signals with effective g values at g = 4.73, g = 4.10, g = 3.3, and g = 1.98. The resonance signal at g = 1.98 is found to be more intense than the other signals and exhibits hyperfine structure at lower concentration of manganese. From the observed spectrum, the spin-Hamiltonian parameters have been evaluated. In glass samples the optical absorption spectrum exhibits a broad band around ∼20,320 cm −1 which has been assigned to the transition 6 A 1g (S) → 4 A 1g (G) 4 E g (G)-of Mn 2+ ions. The cerammed samples upon 394 nm excitation emit a green luminescence (565 nm, 4 T 1g → 6 A 1g (G) transition of Mn 2+ ions), and a weak red emission (710 nm). From the ultraviolet absorption edges, the optical bandgap energies ( E opt ) were evaluated and are discussed.

Spherical shaped ZnO nanopowders (14-50 nm) were synthesized by a low temperature solution combustion method in a short time5 min. Rietveld analysis show that ZnO has hexagonal wurtzite structure with lattice constants a=3.2511(1) Å, c=5.2076(2) Å, unit cell volume (V)=47.66(5) (Å)(3) and belongs to space group P63mc. SEM micrographs reveal that the particles are spherical in shape and the powders contained several voids and pores. TEM results also confirm spherical shape, with average particle size of 14-50 nm. The values are consistent with the grain sizes measured from Scherrer's method and Williamson-Hall (W-H) plots. A broad UV-vis absorption spectrum was observed at ∼375 nm which is a characteristic band for the wurtzite hexagonal pure ZnO. The optical energy band gap of 3.24 eV was observed for nanopowder which is slightly lower than that of the bulk ZnO (3.37 eV). The observed Raman peaks at 438 and 588 cm(-1) were attributed to the E(2) (high) and E(1) (LO) modes respectively. The broad band at 564 cm(-1) is due to disorder-activated Raman scattering for the A(1) mode. These bands are associated with the first-order Raman active modes of the ZnO phase. The weak bands observed in the range 750-1000 cm(-1) are due to small defects.

Nanocrystalline ZnO powders have been synthesized by a low temperature solution combustion method. The photoluminescence (PL) spectrum of as-formed and heat treated ZnO shows strong violet (402, 421, 437, 485 nm) and weak green (520 nm) emission peaks respectively. The PL intensities of defect related emission bands decrease with calcinations temperature indicating the decrease of Zni and Vo+ caused by the chemisorptions of oxygen. The results are correlated with the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies. Thermoluminescence (TL) glow curves of gamma irradiated ZnO nanoparticles exhibit a single broad glow peak at ∼343 °C. This can be attributed to the recombination of charge carriers released from the surface states associated with oxygen defects, mainly interstitial oxygen ion centers. The trapping parameters of ZnO irradiated with various γ-doses are calculated using peak shape method. It is observed that the glow peak intensity increases with increase of gamma dose without changing glow curve shape. These two characteristic properties such as TL intensity increases with gamma dose and simple glow curve structure is an indication that the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles might be used as good TL dosimeter for high temperature application.

Copper dodecanoate films prepared by emulsion method exhibit superhydrophobic property with water contact angle of 155 degrees and sliding angle of E-2(g) and B-2(1g) -> B-2(2g) transitions of Cu2+ ions, respectively. The electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum exhibits two resonance signals with effective g values at g(parallel to)approximate to 2.308 and g(perpendicular to) approximate to 2.071, which suggests that the unpaired electron occupies d(x2-y2) orbital in the ground state. Copyright (C) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A blue phosphor, BaMgAl 10 O 17 :Eu 2+ , has been synthesized in the furnace at a temperature of 500 °C by solution combustion method. The formation of the as-prepared BaMgAl 10 O 17 :Eu 2+ phosphor was confirmed by the powder X-ray diffraction technique. The EPR spectrum exhibited an intense resonance signal centered at g =4.63 at 150 mT along with a number of resonances in the vicinity of g>2.0 and g g =4.63 have been calculated as a function of temperature. The excitation spectrum of BaMgAl 10 O 17 :Eu 2+ phosphor showed a strong peak near 336 nm (4f 7 ( 8 S)→5d 1 (t 2g ) transition) with a staircase like structure in the region 376–400 nm owing to crystal field splitting of the Eu 2+ d-orbital. The 336 nm excitation produced a broad blue emission at 450 nm corresponding to 4f 6 5d→4f 7 transition. PL studies reveal the two emission centers one at 450 nm and the other at 490 nm in this phosphor.

Superhydrophobic surfaces based on ZnO–PDMS nanocomposite coatings are demonstrated by a simple, facile, time-saving, wet chemical route. ZnO nanopowders with average particle size of 14 nm were synthesized by a low temperature solution combustion method. Powder X-ray diffraction results confirm that the nanopowders exhibit hexagonal wurtzite structure and belong to space group P63mc. Field emission scanning electron micrographs reveal that the nanoparticles are connected to each other to make large network systems consisting of hierarchical structure. The as formed ZnO coating exhibits wetting behaviour with Water Contact Angle (WCA) of ∼108◦, however on modification with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), it transforms to superhydrophobic surface with measured contact and sliding angles for water at 155◦ and less than 5◦ respectively. The surface properties such as surface free energy, interfacial free energy (pw), and the adhesive work (Wpw) were evaluated. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies on superhydrophobic coatings revealed that the surface defects play a major role on the wetting behaviour. Advantages of the present method include the cheap and fluorine-free raw materials,environmentally benign solvents, and feasibility for applying on large area of different substrates.

Cu (0.1 mol%) doped ZnO nanopowders have been successfully synthesized by a wet chemical method at a relatively low temperature (300 degrees C). Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy, Photoluminescence (PL) and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) measurements were used for characterization. PXRD results confirm that the nanopowders exhibit hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO without any secondary phase. The particle size of as-formed product has been calculated by Williamson-Hall (W-H) plots and Scherrer's formula is found to be in the range of similar to 40 nm. TEM image confirms the nano size crystalline nature of Cu doped ZnO. SEM micrographs of undoped and Cu doped ZnO show highly porous with large voids. UV-Vis spectrum showed a red shift in the absorption edge in Cu doped ZnO. PL spectra show prominent peaks corresponding to near band edge UV emission and defect related green emission in the visible region at room temperature and their possible mechanisms have been discussed. The EPR spectrum exhibits a broad resonance signal at g similar to 2.049, and two narrow resonances one at g similar to 1.990 and other at g similar to 1.950. The broad resonance signal at g similar to 2.049 is a characteristic of Cu2+ ion whereas the signal at g similar to 1.990 and g similar to 1.950 can be attributed to ionized oxygen vacancies and shallow donors respectively. The spin concentration (N) and paramagnetic susceptibility (X) have been evaluated and discussed. (C) 2011 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.

Eu3+ (8 mol%) activated gadolinium oxide nanorods have been prepared by hydrothermal method without and with surfactant, cityl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB). Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) studies reveal that the as-formed product is in hexagonal Gd(OH)(3):Eu phase and subsequent heat treatment at 350 and 600 degrees C transforms the sample to monoclinic GdOOH:Eu and cubic Gd2O3:Eu phases, respectively. The structural data and refinement parameters for cubic Gd2O3:Eu nanorods were calculated by the Rietveld refinement. SEM and TEM micrographs show that as-obtained Gd(OH)(3):Eu consists of uniform nanorods in high yield with uniform diameters of about 15 nm and lengths of about 50-150 nm. The temperature dependent morphological evolution of Gd2O3:Eu without and with CTAB surfactant was studied. FTIR studies reveal that CTAB surfactant plays an important role in converting cubic Gd2O3:Eu to hexagonal Gd(OH)(3):Eu. The strong and intense Raman peak at 489 cm(-1) has been assigned to A(g) mode, which is attributed to the hexagonal phase of Gd2O3. The peak at similar to 360 cm(-1) has been assigned to the combination of F-g and E-g modes, which is mainly attributed to the cubic Gd2O3 phase. The shift in frequency and broadening of the Raman modes have been attributed to the decrease in crystallite dimension to the nanometer scale as a result of phonon confinement. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films have been prepared on silicon substrates by sol–gel spin coating technique with spinning speed of 3,000 rpm. The films were annealed at different temperatures from 200 to 500 °C and found that ZnO films exhibit different nanostructures at different annealing temperatures. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that the ZnO films convert from amorphous to polycrystalline phase after annealing at 400 °C. The metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) capacitors were fabricated using ZnO films deposited on pre-cleaned silicon (100) substrates and electrical properties such as current versus voltage (I–V) and capacitance versus voltage (C–V) characteristics were studied. The electrical resistivity decreased with increasing annealing temperature. The oxide capacitance was measured at different annealing temperatures and different signal frequencies. The dielectric constant and the loss factor (tanδ) were increased with increase of annealing temperature.

Manganese-doped BaAl12O19 green phosphor was prepared using a self-propagating (combustion) synthesis. Powder X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the as-prepared combustion product. A room temperature photoluminescence study shows an emission line at 513 nm corresponding to a transition from the upper 4T1 → 6A1 ground state of Mn2+ ions. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum exhibits six line hyperfine structure at g = 1.981. From the EPR spectrum, the spin-Hamiltonian parameters have been evaluated. The g value indicates that the site symmetry around Mn2+ ions is distorted tetrahedral. The number of spins (N) participating in the resonance for g = 1.981 is measured as a function of temperature. The paramagnetic susceptibility (χ) is calculated from the EPR data at various temperatures. From the plot 1/χ versus T, the Curie constant (C) and Curie paramagnetic temperature (θp) have been evaluated and discussed.

Europium doped LaMgAl11O19 phosphor was prepared by the combustion method. The as-prepared and post-treated (1350 °C 10 h 5% H2+95% N2) phosphors were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence (PL) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques. XRD patterns show that LaMgAl11O19:Eu phosphors have hexagonal structure. FT-IR spectrum exhibits absorption bands corresponding to the stretching vibration of AlO4 and AlO6. Morphological studies reveal that this phosphor has faceted plates of varying sizes and shapes. The as-prepared LaMgAl11O19:Eu phosphor consists of both Eu3+ and Eu2+ ions. The phosphor exhibits a bright blue emission at 450 nm (4f65d→4f7 transition of Eu2+). On post-treating the phosphor we are able to enhance the blue emission efficiency by 330%. The process was detected from the evolution of excitation, emission and EPR spectra and the results are discussed.

Gd2O3:Eu3+ (4 mol%) nanophosphor co-doped with Li+ ions have been synthesized by low-temperature solution combustion technique in a short time. Powder X-ray diffractometer (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV-VIS and photoluminescence (PL) techniques have been employed to characterize the synthesized nanoparticles. It is found that the lattice of Gd2O3:Eu3+ phosphor transforms from monoclinic to cubic as the Li+-ions are doped. Upon 254 nm excitation, the phosphor showed characteristic luminescence D-5(0) -> F-7(J) (J= 0-4) of the Eu3+ ions. The electronic transition located at 626 nm (D-5(0) -> F-7(2)) of Eu3+ ions was stronger than the magnetic dipole transition located at 595 nm (D-5(0) -> F-7(1)). Furthermore, the effects of the Li+ co-doping as well as calcinations temperature on the PL properties have been studied. The results show that incorporation of Li+ ions in Gd2O3:Eu3+ lattice could induce a remarkable improvement of their PL intensity. The emission intensity was observed to be enhanced four times than that of with out Li+-doped Gd2O3:Eu3+. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved

Amorphous SiO2 thin films were prepared on glass and silicon substrates by cost effective sol-gel method. Tetra ethyl ortho silicate (TEOS) was used as the precursor material, ethanol as solvent and concentrated HCl as a catalyst. The films were characterized at different annealing temperatures. The optical transmittance was slightly increased with increase of annealing temperature. The refractive index was found to be 1.484 at 550 nm. The formation of SiO2 film was analyzed from FT-IR spectra. The MOS capacitors were designed using silicon (1 0 0) substrates. The current-voltage (I-V), capacitance-voltage (C-V) and dissipation-voltage (D-V) measurements were taken for all the annealed films deposited on Si (1 0 0). The variation of current density, resistivity and dielectric constant of SiO2 films with different annealing temperatures was investigated and discussed for its usage in applications like MOS capacitor. The results revealed the decrease of dielectric constant and increase of resistivity of SiO2 films with increasing annealing temperature. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

CaSiO 3 :Eu 3+ (1–5 mol%) red emitting phosphors have been synthesized by a low-temperature solution combustion method. The phosphors have been well characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical spectroscopy. PXRD patterns reveal monoclinic CaSiO 3 phase can be obtained at 900 °C. The SEM micrographs show the crystallites with irregular shape, mostly angular. Upon 254 nm excitation, the phosphor show characteristic fluorescence 5 D 0 → 7 F J ( J = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4) of the Eu 3+ ions. The electronic transition located at 614 nm corresponding to 5 D 0 → 7 F 2 of Eu 3+ ions, which is stronger than the magnetic dipole transition located at 593 nm corresponding to 5 D 0 → 7 F 1 of Eu 3+ ions. Different pathways involved in emission process have been studied. Concentration quenching has been observed for Eu 3+ concentration > 4 mol%. UV–visible absorption shows an intense band at 240 nm in undoped and 270 nm in Eu 3+ doped CaSiO 3 which is attributed to oxygen to silicon (O–Si) ligand-to-metal charge-transfer (LMCT) band in the SiO 3 2− group. The optical energy band gap is widened with increase of Eu 3+ ion dopant.

Spherical and rod like nanocrystalline Nd2O3 phosphors have been prepared by solution combustion and hydrothermal methods respectively The Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) results confirm that hexagonal A-type Nd2O3 has been obtained with calcination at 900 C for 3 h and the lattice parameters have been evaluated by Rietveld refinement Surface morphology of Nd2O3 phosphors show the formation of nanorods in hydrothermal synthesis whereas spherical particles in combustion method TEM results also confirm the same Raman studies show major peaks which are assigned to F-g and combination of A(g) + E-g modes The PL spectrum shows a series of emission bands at similar to 326-373 nm (UV) 421-485 nm (blue) 529-542 nm (green) and 622 nm (red) The UV blue green and red emission in the PL spectrum indicates that Nd2O3 nanocrystals are promising for high performance materials and white light emitting diodes (LEDs) (C) 2010 Elsevier B V All rights reserved

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and optical absorption spectral investigations have been carried out on Fe3+ ions doped sodium borophosphate glasses (NaH2PO4–B2O3–Fe2O3). The EPR spectra exhibit resonance signals with effective g values at g=2.02, g=4.2 and g=6.4. The resonance signal at g=4.2 is due to isolated Fe3+ ions in site with rhombic symmetry whereas the g=2.02 resonance is due to Fe3+ ions coupled by exchange interaction in a distorted octahedral environment. The EPR spectra at different temperatures (123–295 K) have also been studied. The intensity of the resonance signals decreases with increase in temperature whereas linewidth is found to be independent of temperature. The paramagnetic susceptibility (χ) was calculated from the EPR data at various temperatures and the Curie constant (C) and paramagnetic Curie temperature (θp) have been evaluated from the 1/χ versus T graph. The optical absorption spectrum exhibits bands characteristic of Fe3+ ions in octahedral symmetry. The crystal field parameter (Dq) and the Racah interelectronic repulsion parameters (B and C) have also been evaluated and discussed.

An efficient red emitting ZnAl2O4:Cr3+ powder phosphor material was prepared at furnace temperatures as low as 500 °C by using the combustion method. The prepared powders were analyzed by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The optical properties were studied using photoluminescence technique. The EPR spectra exhibit an intense resonance signal at g = 3.74 which is attributed to Cr3+–Cr3+ pairs, and the weak resonance signal of at g = 1.97 is attributed to Cr3+ single ion transition. The spin population (N) has been evaluated as a function of temperature. The excitation spectrum exhibits two broad bands in the visible region which are characteristic of Cr3+ ions in octahedral symmetry and the emission spectrum exhibits zero-phonon line frequencies along with vibronic frequencies. The crystal field parameter (Dq) and Racah parameters (B and C) have been evaluated and discussed.

CaSiO3 : Dy3+ (1-5 mol. %) nanophosphors were synthesized by a simple low-temperature solution combustion method. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns revealed that the phosphors are crystalline and can be indexed to a monoclinic phase. Scanning electron micrographs exhibited faceted plates and angular crystals of different sizes with a porous nature. Photoluminescence properties of the Dy3+-doped CaSiO3 phosphors were observed and analyzed. Emission peaks at 483, 573 and 610 nm corresponding to Dy3+ were assigned as F-4(9/2)-> H-6(15/2), F-4(9/2) -> H-6(13/2) and F-4(9/2) -> H-6(11/2) transitions, respectively, and dominated by the Dy3+ F-4(9/2) -> H-6(13/2) hyperfine transition. Experimental results revealed that the luminescence intensity was affected by both heat treatment and the concentration of Dy3+ (1-5 mol. %) in the CaSiO3 host. Optimal luminescence conditions were achieved when the concentration of Dy3+ was 2 mol. %. UV-visible absorption features an intense band at 240 nm, which corresponds to an O-Si ligand-to-metal charge transfer band in the SiO32- group. The optical energy band gap for the undoped sample was found to be 5.45 eV, whereas in Dy3+-doped phosphors it varies in the range 5.49-5.65 eV. The optical energy gap widens with increase of Dy3+ ion dopant.

Gadolinium-activated Y2O3 phosphor has been prepared by combustion process in a short time of 5 min. The phosphors are well characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive analysis of X-ray. The as-prepared Y2O3:Gd powder shows that all the peaks are due to the Y2O3 cubic phase. Upon UV light excitation (276 nm), the phosphor exhibits a strong and sharp UV emission at 314 nm and is ascribed to $$ ^{ 6} {\text{P}}_{ 7/ 2} \, {\to}\, ^{ 8} {\text{S}}_{ 7/ 2} $$ transition of Gd3+ ions. The EPR spectrum of Y2O3:Gd phosphor exhibits resonance signals with effective g values at g = 1.96, g = 2.88, and g = 6.08 and are attributed to Gd3+ ions located at sites with weak, intermediate, and strong cubic symmetry fields, respectively. It is observed that the population of spin levels (N) and linewidth depends on temperature. The paramagnetic susceptibility (χ) is also evaluated as a function of temperature and discussed.

Gd2O3:Eu3+ (0.5-8.0 mol%) nanophosphors have been prepared by low temperature solution combustion method using metal nitrates as oxidizers and oxalyl dihydrazide (ODH) as a fuel. The phosphors are well characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and photoluminescence (PL) techniques. PXRD patterns of as-formed and calcined (800 degrees C, 3 h) Gd2O3 powders exhibit monoclinic phase with mean crystallite sizes ranging from 20 to 50 nm. Eu3+ doping changes the structure from monoclinic to mixed phase of monoclinic and cubic. SEM micrographs shows the products are foamy, agglomerated and fluffy in nature due to the large amount of gases liberated during combustion reaction. Upon 254 nm excitation the photoluminescence of the Gd2O3:Eu3+ particles show red emission at 611 nm corresponding to D-5(0)-> F-7(2) transition. It is observed that PL intensity increases with calcination temperature. This might be attributed to better crystallization and eliminates the defects, which serve as centers of non-radiative relaxation for nanomaterials. It is observed that the optical energy gap (E-g) is widened with increase Eu3+ content. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Powder phosphors of CaLa1− x Eu x Al3O7, CaLa1− x Ce x Al3O7 and CaLa0.99− x Eu x Ce0.01Al3O7, where x = 0.01, 0.03, 0.05 and 0.07, were prepared by a combustion method. The powders were well characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and photoluminescence techniques. Emission spectra of Eu3+-doped powder phosphors showed strong red emission at 613 nm (5D0 → 7F2); no concentration quenching was observed. Generally, Ce3+ acts as an efficient sensitizer when doped with other trivalent lanthanide ions. However, interestingly, in the CaLaAl3O7 powder phosphors, the addition of Ce3+ with Eu3+ exhibited an adverse effect–decreased photoluminescence intensity. The reasons for this behavior are discussed.

Glass systems of composition xAg2SO4–20Ag2O–(80−x) [0.50 B2O3–0.50 TeO2], where x = 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 mol% have been prepared by melt-quenching technique. Frequency- and temperature-dependent conductivity measurements have been carried out in the frequency range 10 Hz to 10 MHz and at a temperature range of 303–353 K, respectively. DC conductivities exhibit Arrhenius behavior over the entire temperature range with a single activation barrier. Addition of Ag2SO4 expands the glass network and, consequently, conductivity increases. This suggests that the structure and network expansion are the key parameters for enhancing conductivity. Impedance spectra of these glasses show a single semicircle, indicating one type of conduction. AC conductivity behavior of the glasses was analyzed using both single power law and Kolhrauh–William–Watts (KWW) stretched exponential relaxation function. The power law exponent (s) is temperature-dependent, while the stretched exponent (β) is insensitive to temperature. Sc...

This paper reports the results on mixed alkali effect (MAE) in x Li 2 O–(30– x )Cs 2 O–69.25B 2 O 3 (5 ⩽ x ⩽ 25) glasses doped with 0.75 mol% of Cr 3+ ions studied by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR), optical absorption and luminescence techniques. The EPR spectra exhibit two resonance signals with effective g values at g ≈ 4.82 and g ≈ 1.99. These two resonance signals are attributed to isolated Cr 3+ ions and exchange coupled Cr 3+ pairs respectively. In addition to this, two more resonance signals with effective g values at g ≈ 4.12 and g ≈ 1.97 are also observed. The resonance signal at g ≈ 4.12 is due to Fe 3+ ions impurity and the resonance signal at g ≈ 1.97 is due to Cr 5+ ions. The population of spin levels ( N ) for the resonance signal at g ≈ 1.99 has been calculated at room temperature. It is interesting to observe that N exhibits a non-linear behavior with change in composition showing the mixed alkali effect. The magnetic susceptibility ( χ ) was calculated from the EPR data at various temperatures. The exchange coupling constant J between Cr 3+ ions is calculated from relative intensities of g ≈ 1.99 resonance line. The optical absorption spectrum exhibits three bands characteristic of Cr 3+ ions in octahedral symmetry. From the optical absorption spectral data, the crystal field (Dq) and Racah parameters ( B and C ) have been evaluated. From ultraviolet absorption edges, the optical band gap and Urbach energies have been calculated. The luminescence spectrum exhibits a red emission peak observed at 640 nm which is assigned to a transition 2 E g → 4 A 2g of Cr 3+ ions.

Single-step low-temperature solution combustion (LCS) synthesis was adopted for the preparation of LaMnO3+ (LM) nanopowders. The powders were well characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS),surface area and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The PXRD of as-formed LM showed a cubic phase but, upon calcination (900degrees C, 6 h), it transformed into a rhombohedral phase. The effect of fuel on the formation of LM was examined, and its structure and magnetoresistance properties were investigated. Magnetoresistance (MR) measurements on LM were carried out at 0, 1, 4 and 7 T between 300 and 10 K. LM (fuel-to-oxidizer ratio; = 1) showed an MR of 17% at 1 T, whereas, for 4 and 7 T, it exhibited an MR of 45 and 55%, respectively, near the TM-I. Metallic resistivity data below TM-I showed that the double exchange interaction played a major role in this compound. It was interesting to observe that the sample calcined at 1200 degrees C for 3 h exhibited insulator behavior.

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), optical absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopic measurements are performed on Mn2+ doped high bismuth containing zinc–bismuth–borate glasses. TEM images reveal homogeneously dispersed Bio nanoparticles (NPs) of spherical shape with size about 5 nm. EPR spectra exhibit predominant signals at g≈2.0 and 4.3 with a sextet hyperfine structure. The resonance signal at g≈2.0 is due to Mn2+ ions in an environment close to octahedral symmetry, where as the resonance at g≈4.3 is attributed to the rhombic surrounding of the Mn2+ ions. The hyperfine splitting constant (A) indicates that Mn2+ ions in these glasses are moderately covalent in nature. The zero-field splitting parameter D has been calculated from the allowed hyperfine lines. The optical absorption spectrum exhibits a single broad band centered at 518 nm (19,305 cm−1) is assigned to the 6A1g(S)→4T1g(G) transition of Mn2+ ions. The visible and near infrared (NIR) luminescence bands at 548, 652 and 804 nm have been observed when excited at 400 and 530 nm, respectively. These luminescence centers are supposed to be caused by the lower valence state of bismuth, such as Bi2+ and Bi+ ions, generated during melting process.

Enstatite (MgSiO3) ceramic powders were synthesised by a low-temperature initiated self-propagating, gas-producing solution combustion process. The prepared powders were characterised by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Brunauer-Emmer-Teller specific surface area measurements. Defect centres induced by radiation were studied using the techniques of thermoluminescence (TL) and electron spin resonance (ESR). A well-resolved glow with peak at 178 degrees C and a shouldered peak at 120 degrees C were observed. Two defect centres were identified by ESR measurements, which were carried out at room temperature, and these were assigned to an O- ion and F+ centre. The O- ion (hole centre) appears to correlate with the main TL peak at 178 degrees C.

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), optical absorption and photoluminescence studies of Cr 3+ ions in lithium borophosphate glasses have been studied. The EPR spectra exhibit two resonance signals with effective g values at g = 4.56 and g = 1.96. These resonance signals are attributed to isolated Cr 3+ ions and exchange coupled Cr 3+ pairs, respectively. The EPR spectra have also been studied at various low temperatures. The population of spin levels ( N ) participating at resonance signal g = 1.96 has been calculated as a function of temperature. The spin-population ( N ) is found to be increasing with decrease in temperature. The magnetic susceptibility ( χ ) was calculated from the EPR data. It is observed that as temperature decreases, χ increases in accordance with Curie–Weiss law. The exchange coupling constant J between Cr 3+ ions is calculated from the relative intensities of g = 1.96 resonance line at various temperatures. The optical absorption spectrum exhibits four bands characteristic of Cr 3+ ions in octahedral symmetry. From the optical absorption spectral data, the crystal field (Dq) and Racah parameters ( B and C ) have been evaluated. The luminescence spectrum exhibits a red emission peak, which is assigned to a transition from the upper 4 T 2g (F) → 4 A 2g (F) ground state of Cr 3+ ions. The optical band gap is evaluated from the ultraviolet absorption edges.

Europium doped BaAl 12 O 19 powder phosphors have been synthesized by combustion process within few minutes. The phosphors have been characterized by XRD, SEM, FT-IR, EPR and PL techniques. The EPR spectrum exhibits an intense resonance signal at g =1.96 characteristic of Eu 2+ ions. In addition to this two weak resonance signals have been observed at g =2.28 and g =4.86. The population of the spin levels ( N ) for the resonance signal at g =1.96 is calculated as a function of temperature. By post-treating the phosphor at 1350 °C under a reducing atmosphere, it is observed that the population of spin levels has been increased five times. The excitation spectrum shows a peak at 326 nm with a shoulder at 290 nm. Upon excitation at 326 nm, the emission spectrum exhibits a well defined broad band with maximum at 444 nm emitting a blue light corresponding to 4f 6 5d→4f 7 transition. The luminescence intensity also has been enhanced to 60% by post-treating the phosphor at 1350 °C under a reducing atmosphere.

Calcium sulphate (CaSO4) pseudomicrorods have been synthesized by alow-temperature hydrothermal method using CaSO4 powder as a precursor and hexadecylamine as a surfactant at 180 degrees C for at different intervals of time. The powder X-ray diffraction pattern indicates that the as-formed pseudomicrorods are of orthorhombic phase with lattice parameters a = 7.0023(4) angstrom, b = 6.9939(5) angstrom and c = 6.2434(4) angstrom. Scanning electron microscopy images show that the pseudomicrorods have diameters of about 0.2-2.5 mm and lengths of about 2-10 mm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy shows a strong doublet near 609 and 681 cm(-1) arising from nu(4) (SO42) bending vibrations. The strongest band observed at 1132 cm(-1) is associated with nu(3) (SO42-) stretching vibrations. The band near 420-450 cm(-1) is attributed to nu(2) (SO42-) bending vibrations. The Raman spectrum exhibits an intense peak at 1008 cm(-1) associated with the SO42- mode. The photoluminescence spectrum exhibits UV bands (330, 350 nm), strong green bands (402, 436 nm) and weak blue bands (503 nm). A widening of the optical band gap was observed as the particle size decreased.

Glasses containing heavy metal oxide of the composition (wt.%) 23B 2 O 3 –5ZnO–72Bi 2 O 3 – x Fe 2 O 3 /CeO 2 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.0058 at.% in excess) were prepared by melt quenching technique. The glass formation was confirmed by XRD. FTIR spectra exhibit characteristic absorption bands for B 2 O 3 and Bi 2 O 3 for their various structural units. The EPR spectra exhibit two resonance signals at g ≈ 6.4 and g ≈ 4.2 for Fe 2 O 3 doped glasses. The resonance signals at g ≈ 4.2 and g ≈ 6.4 are attributed to Fe 3+ ions in rhombic and axial symmetry sites, respectively. The number of spins participating in resonance ( N ) and its paramagnetic susceptibility ( χ ) with composition has been evaluated. The effect of CeO 2 and Fe 2 O 3 on optical and structural properties of zinc bismuth borate glass was investigated. From EPR and optical studies it is observed that iron ions are present in trivalent state with distorted octahedral symmetry. The cerium is present in Ce 4+ state. Upon 400 nm excitation the emission at 548 and 652 nm are attributed to the Bi 2+ species. The emission at 804 nm upon 530 nm excitation suggests that Bi + ions are present in the sample. It is interesting to observe that the optical band gap energy ( E opt ) decreases with the increase of transition metal and rare-earth ion doping.

New near-infrared luminescent, monoclinic CaAl2O4:Er3+ phosphor was prepared by using the combustion route at furnace temperatures as low as 500 °C in a few minutes. Combustion synthesized phosphor has been well characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive analysis of X-ray (EDAX) mapping studies. The luminescence spectra of Er3+-doped calcium aluminate were studied at UV (380 nm), vis (488 nm) and IR (980 nm) excitation. Upon UV and vis excitation, the CaAl2O4:Er3+ phosphor exhibits emission bands at ~523 nm and at ~547 nm, corresponding to transitions from the 2H11/2 and 4S3/2 erbium levels to the 4I15/2 ground state. A strong luminescence at 1.55 μm in the infrared (IR) region due to 4I13/2→4I15/2 transition has been observed in CaAl2O4:Er3+ phosphor upon 980 nm CW pumping. In the spectrum of IR-excited up-conversion luminescence, green (~523 and ~547 nm) and red (662 nm) luminescence bands were present, the latter associated with the 4F9/2→4I15/2 transitions of Er3+ ions. Both excited state absorption and energy transfer may be proposed as processes responsible for the population of the 4S3/2 and 4F9/2 erbium levels upon IR excitation. The mechanisms responsible for the up-conversion luminescence are discussed.

Ion irradiation induced phase transformation in calcite single crystals have been studied by means of Raman and infrared spectroscopy using 120 MeV Au9+ ions. The observed bands have been assigned according to group theory analysis. For higher fluence of 5×1012 ion/cm2, an extra peak on either side of the 713 cm−1 peak and an increase in the intensity of 1085 cm−1 peak were observed in Raman studies. FTIR spectra exhibit extra absorption bands at 674, 1589 cm−1 and enhancement in bands at 2340 and 2374 cm−1 was observed. This might be due to the phase transformation from calcite to vaterite. The damage cross section ( σ ) for all the Raman and FTIR active modes was determined. The increase of FWHM, shift in peak positions and appearance of new peaks indicated that calcite phase is converted into vaterite.