Optimization of obtaining of translucent luminescent ceramics YNbO4 by uniaxial hot pressing from crystal powders synthesized by sol-gel

We have established optimized parameters of technological process for obtaining of translucent luminescent YNbO4 ceramics by uniaxial hot pressing (UHP). Ultrafine crystalline powders used for this have been synthesized by sol-gel and sintered at three different temperatures. Series of ceramic YNbO4 samples were obtained from the powders by UHP at three different sintering conditions. Morphological features of the microstructure, mechanical and photoluminescent characteristics in the visible wavelength range have been compared for YNbO4 ceramic samples obtained at different UHP conditions and controlled with sample prepared by conventional sintering (CS). The most optimal UHP regime for translucent YNbO4 ceramics obtaining have been chosen. •Ultrafine YNbO4 powders were prepared by sol-gel and sintered at 3 temperatures.•An optimal regime was chosen for uniaxial hot pressing (UHP) of YNbO4 ceramics.•The optimal regime is: Tsint = 1180 °C, P1 = 220 kg/cm2, τsint = 60 min.•Microstructure, mechanical characteristics and photoluminescence were studied.