Design and spectral control of a novel ultraviolet emitting long lasting phosphor for assisting TiO 2 photocatalysis: Zn 2 SiO 4 :Ga 3+ , Bi 3+

In order to support the TiO2 based photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants at night or in non-transparent wastewater, we successfully synthesized a novel ultraviolet emitting long lasting phosphor (Zn2SiO4:Ga3+, Bi3+) using a solid state method. The long lasting phosphorescence spectra were adjusted by changing the Bi3+ co-doping concentrations and the 22-63.18% of the spectral areas can well match the absorption band of TiO2. The long lasting phosphorescence of the optimal Zn2SiO4:Ga3+, Bi3+ sample was detected for more than 4 h. Therefore, the Zn2SiO4:Ga3+, Bi3+ a valuable ultraviolet long lasting phosphor that may be used as an extra light source for promoting TiO2 photocatalysis. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.