Effect of Eu doping on the structure, morphology and luminescence properties of ZnO submicron rod for white LED applications

Eu3+-doped ZnO submicron rod has been prepared by a hydrothermal method. Synthesized rods are characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and photoluminescence spectra (PL). The results indicated structures and morphology of rods affected by the Eu3+ doping concentration. 5D0–7FJ (J = 1, 2 and 3) of Eu3+ emission appeared, and energy transfer from the ZnO host and deep defects of ZnO to Eu3+ in the ZnO:Eu is occurred. Strong and white emission was observed in the sample with 15% Eu.