Rare Earth Free Zn3V2O8 Phosphor with Controlled Microstructure and Its Photocatalytic Activity

Microsphere of rare earth free phosphor, Zn3V2O8, with broadband yellowish white emission was synthesized by combustion route and compared with the hydrothermal, sol-gel, and solid state reaction methods. The phosphor samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. UV-visible absorption and photoluminescence (PL) emission and excitation spectra were investigated for these phosphors. Zn3V2O8 phosphor containing 10 mol% of H3BO3 flux exhibited enhanced PL emission showing broadband from 450 nm to 750 nm. Effect of stoichiometry of Zn and V on the host lattice and its effect on the PL emission spectra were studied. Series of Mg3V2O8, Ca3V2O8, and Sr3V2O8 phosphors were also synthesized and compared to the Zn3V2O8 phosphor in terms of PL emission and internal quantum yield, and it was found that Zn3V2O8 is the most efficient phosphor among the other phosphors studied with quantum yield of 60%. The visible light irradiated photocatalytic activity of these phosphors was investigated and it was found that the hydrothermal Zn3V2O8 exhibited enhanced activity.