Photoluminescence of Zn_2SiO_4∶Mn^(2+) Prepared by Combustion Technique

Manganese-doped zinc silicate powder samples were prepared successfully by solution combustion process,and their photoluminescence were investigated in ultraviolet region. The single-phase of Zn_(2- x )SiO_4: x Mn (0≤ x ≤0.10,willemite) was obtained by combustion synthesis at 600 ℃ for afew minutes,then heat treated at above 900 ℃ for 4 h. In the excitation spectra of Zn_(2- x )SiO_4: x Mn (0< x ≤0.10),the strongest broad band at about 254 nm is observed and assigned to (() 6A_1)→(() 4T_1) transition of Mn (2+) monitoring at 525 nm emission. At about 525 nm,the intense broad band emission is observed under 254 nm excitation in Zn_(2- x )SiO_4: x Mn (0< x ≤0.10). This broad band is attributed to (() 4T_1)→(() 6A_1) transition of Mn (2+). The results indicate that photoluminescence efficiency,the location of the strongest excitation or emission band,and the optimum concentration of activator depend on starting materials,combustion temperatures,the dosage of fuels,and the size of powder samples etc..