Luminescence and photostimulable centres in X-irradiated Y2SiO5:SmxTby

Abstract

The luminescence properties of Y2SiO5 (X2 type) coactivated with the electron trap Sm3+ and the hole trap Tb3+ are strongly influenced by the formation of defect centres. These centres are able to store carriers after X‐ray or cathode ray irradiation. Photostimulation or thermal stimulation yields activator luminescence. Due to cross relaxation the emission colour varies for Tb3+ activation according to the Tb3+ concentration between blue and green. A model for the storage mechanism is discussed.