Investigating the influence of mono-, di-, and trivalent co-dopants (Li+, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Bi3+) on the photoluminescent properties and their prospective role in data security applications for SrAl2O4:Tb3+ nanophosphors synthesized via an eco-friendly combustion method

•Green emitting SrAl2O4:Tb3+ (1–5 mol %) phosphor is synthesized via green combustion route.•Upon excitation with a 377 nm wavelength, the emission spectra in green display strong major peaks at 480, 541, 587, and 620 nm.•A platform based on photoluminescence has been set up for in-situ visualization of latent fingerprints using the powder dusting method.•Superior contrast, sensitivity, selectivity, and low background impediment are displayed by developed latent fingerprints.•The SrAl2O4:4Tb3+/Li+ phosphor may find use in the environment and bio-medical industries.