Sr₂ZnS₃: Crystal structure and fluorescent properties of a new Eu(II)-activated yellow emission phosphor

The synthesis of Sr₂ZnS₃ compound is discussed. Pyrolysis and oxidation of the polymer matrix yield SrCO₃ with homogeneous distribution of Eu ions. The prepared SrS:Eu precursor was mixed with ZnS powder in the dry glovebox, and the powder was loaded into the high pressure cell. The EDX analysis of the ~20×20 μm area of the grains revealed presence of Sr, Zn, and S as the main elements with trace amounts of carbon and oxygen. The EDX probe identifies Sr, oxygen, and a small amount of carbon as the main elements, which exhibits the oxygen containing phases, which may form due to the degradation of Sr sulfide during precursor handling. The chemical composition of the crystal selected for the crystal structure solution and refinement as determined by EDX was Sr, 34.9 atom %, Zn, 15.2 atom %, and S, 49.9 atom %, and consequently the ideal Sr:Zn:S ratio of 2:1:3 was assumed. The Eu(II) activated phosphor emits bright golden-yellow light, which can be excited by the near-UV and blue light.