Intensified synthetic approach for GdYAG:Ce phosphors with ultrahigh color rendering toward healthy lighting

Abstract

Process intensified synthetic approach for synthesizing gadolinium and cerium co‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (GdYAG:Ce) phosphors in white light‐emitting diodes (wLED) is developed. By using a high‐gravity rotating packed bed (RPB) reactor for preparation of sol–gel precursors, the significantly enhanced molecular mixing allows precise control and tuning of dry gel with designed structure to obtain nanosized particles of GdYAG:Ce precursors, which are prone to low temperature quick sintering process and therefore reduce the energy consumption of the electric furnace 76% compared to solid phase method. By analyzing the effect of cycling times and high gravity levels of RPB reactor on sintering and crystallization, sintering condition for emission spectrum adjustable GdYAG:Ce phosphors is optimized. Prototype devices based on blue chips and GdYAG:Ce phosphors exhibit high color rendering index of 83.8 and low correlation color temperature of 5357 K that are beneficial for creating a healthy and comfortable lighting environment.