Photo and thermoluminescence of Pr3+ ions activated SrZr4(PO4)6 nanophosphors: plant growth LED and dosimetry applications

A series of Sr 1− x Zr 4 (PO 4 ) 6 : x Pr ( x = 0, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, and 0.09) nanophosphors were prepared by simple sol–gel technique. The crystal structure, vibrational properties, surface morphology, elemental composition, and particle size were investigated using X-ray diffraction-Rietveld refinements, FTIR, SEM-EDAX, and TEM techniques. The effect of dopant concentration of Pr 3+ ions in SrZr 4 (PO 4 ) 6 nanophosphors was analysed, and their photoluminescence properties were investigated along with lifetime measurements. Under 448 nm excitation, due to 3 P 0 – 3 F 2 transition of Pr 3+ ions, it shows intense reddish emission at 650 nm. Energy-level diagram explains energy transfer mechanisms and concentration quenching mechanisms in detail. The appropriate incorporation of dopant ions ( x = 0.03 mol%) showed potential candidates for efficient plant growth n-UV LED. Further, thermoluminescence properties of UV light, Ag and Ni ions irradiated Pr 3+ ions doped SrZr 4 (PO 4 ) 6 phosphors were analysed, and glow curves were recorded. The TL studies reveal that SrZr 4 (PO 4 ) 6 :Pr 3+ phosphors may be a potential candidate as dosimetry materials for low radiation measurement.