Effect of TEOS additive on sintering of LuGdAG:Ce luminescent ceramics

Abstract

This study investigates the combined effects of the Lu/Gd ratio, TEOS sintering additive, and sintering temperature on the properties of LuGdAG:Ce luminescent ceramics. Ceramic samples were fabricated from powders synthesized via chemical precipitation and sintered in vacuum at temperatures ranging from 1720 to 1830°C. It was observed that LuGdAG:Ce ceramics with higher gadolinium content require lower sintering temperatures compared with compositions richer in lutetium. The influence of Gd content on sintering kinetics, microstructure, thermal conductivity, and luminescent properties was systematically examined. Results indicate that Gd content has a critical impact on the optical and thermal characteristics of the material, while the addition of TEOS notably alters grain growth dynamics. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of LuGdAG:Ce ceramics tailored for high-power LEDs featuring a high color rendering index and controlled emission spectra.