Thermal decomposition behaviour of Eu3+- and Sm3+-doped SrAl4O7 precursors: A comparative study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: SrAl 4 O 7 powders doped with Sm 3+ and Eu 3+ were synthesized via an acetate-precursor-based sol-gel method, and their thermal behaviour was investigated using TG-DSC, DTA, and DTG up to 1000°C. The TG curves of the Sm-doped samples exhibited predominantly low- and intermediate-temperature decomposition associated with the degradation of organic and acetate species. In contrast, Eu-doped samples showed a more distinct multistep decomposition behaviour. The DTG profiles further confirmed these differences, with the maximum mass-loss rate decreasing from -3.60 % min -1 for 2 wt% Sm to -0.40 % min -1 for 4 wt% Sm, indicating slower decomposition at higher Sm concentration. The DSC and DTA curves revealed corresponding endothermic and exothermic thermal events associated with dehydration, removal of volatile species, and decomposition of organic and acetate components. 4 wt% Sm-doped sample exhibited the lowest overall mass loss and a more gradual decomposition behaviour, whereas the Eu-doped precursors exhibited thermal transformations extending to higher temperatures. For the Eu-doped samples, the major mass-loss processes were essentially complete by 900°C, with the 4 wt% Eu precursor approaching mass stabilisation at a slightly lower temperature than the 2 wt% Eu. Based on the combined thermal analysis, calcination temperatures of 950°C for the Sm 3+ -doped precursors and 900°C for the Eu 3+ -doped precursors were identified as suitable conditions for completing the major precursor decomposition and providing favourable conditions for subsequent SrAl 4 O 7 phase formation. The results provide useful guidance for the thermal processing and calcination optimization of rare-earth-doped SrAl 4 O 7 materials intended for luminescent and other functional applications.
Authors: R Meenakshi, V.T. Jisha
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,350
OpenAlex ID: W7223030850