RARE-EARTH PHOSPHORS - FUNDAMENTALS AND APPLICATIONS

In this paper an overview is given of luminescent materials, based on rare earth ions. Fundamental aspects and classical applications of lum inescent materials applied in fluorescent lamps and displays are discu ssed with regard to optical properties. The application potential of r are earth phosphors with regard to new developments such as phosphors for LEDs and luminescent materials with quantum yield larger than unit y is also discussed. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A.