Effect of lauric acid‐based Al‐Zr coupling agent on the surface modification of long afterglow phosphors

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on a study which aims to improve the compatibility of the long afterglow phosphors SrMgAl₄O₈:Eu²⁺, Dy³⁺with organic matrix, including its water resistance.

Design/methodology/approach

The phosphors were modified by the lauric acid‐based Al‐Zr coupling agent (CA). Then, they were characterised by attenuated total reflection fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR), pH and electric conductivity in water, scanning electron microscope (SEM), contact angle and fluorescence decay curves before and after modification.

Findings

The pH and electric conductivity displayed the improved water resistance, as the Al‐Zr CA addition increased, and the minimum contact angle with resin decreased from 68.3 to 40.3°C, which showed that the compatibility with organic matrix was enhanced significantly. The afterglow luminous properties were unimpaired.

Research limitations/implications

The researchers are encouraged to test the proposed method and enhance the compatibility further.

Practical implications

This method will extend the applications of phosphors in the paint, coatings, ink and plastics industry.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the lauric acid‐based Al‐Zr CA to modify the luminescent pigments of long afterglow phosphors; it can be also applied to other inorganic powders.

Citation

Guo, B., Yin, P., Xu, J., Yi, F.C., Dai, Y., Gao, Y. and Guo, F.Q. (2011), "Effect of lauric acid‐based Al‐Zr coupling agent on the surface modification of long afterglow phosphors", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 40 No. 2, pp. 100-104. https://doi.org/10.1108/03699421111113756