Pink-emitting RbBaBP2O8:Sm phosphor with diamondoid structure and high thermostability

Microsized borophosphate-based phosphors of RbBaBP2O8:Sm were successfully prepared in this research. X-ray diffraction investigation proves that all phosphors are single phases belonging to the RbBaBP2O8-type diamondoid structure. According to the XPS, luminescence, and optical decay time investigations, there are the co-existence of the divalent and trivalent samarium ions in the RBBP matrix. Upon near-ultraviolet (401 nm) irradiation, the characteristic transitions of both Sm3+ and Sm2+ ions contribute to pink light emission. The content quenching and thermal quenching mechanisms are studied. The RbBaBP2O8:Sm phosphor shows high thermal stability, good color stability, and low correlated color temperature, indicating its promising application in warm white LEDs.