Synthesis and Luminescent Properties of Pr³⁺ Activated KNbO₃ Phosphors by Sol-Gel Combustion Process

Praseodymium doped KNbO3 (KNbO3:Pr) phosphors were synthesized by a facile solgel combustion method. Phase evolution, particle size and luminescent properties of the powders synthesized at various temperatures were investigated. Single-phase KNbO3:Pr nanoscale particles were obtained at 600°C by directly crystallizing from amorphous precursors. The particle size of KNbO3:Pr powders can be well controlled by varying the heat treatment temperature. Under the excitation of 450 nm, KNbO3:Pr phosphors showed the well-known Pr3+ emissions associated with the 4f inter-level electronic transitions in Pr3+ ions.