Micro-powder Ca3Sc2Si3O12:Ce silicate garnets as efficient light converters for WLEDs

Abstract A novel synthesis method of Ca3Sc2Si3O12:Ce micropowder with very bright photo-luminescence (PL) has been developed. The conventional solid-state reaction has been modified for Ca3Sc2Si3O12:Ce microparticle crystallization. Pre-synthesis of metal and silicon oxide blends with subsequent high-temperature treatment in reducing (H2/N2) atmosphere enables obtaining Ca3Sc2Si3O12:Ce micropowder with a high PL quantum yield of about 60–70% at Ce3+ content in the 2.5–5 at.% range, which is highly attractive for LED technology. Additionally, the Ca3Sc2Si3O12:Ce phosphors with Ce concentration in the 0.5–2.5% range display higher thermal stability of photoluminescence in comparison with a commercial YAG:Ce phosphor.