For the first time, polycrystalline thin films of europium-doped barium mag
nesium aluminate (BAM) have been prepared by spray pyrolysis of an aqueous
solution of the corresponding metal nitrates. Stoichiometric BAM films were
obtained at temperatures as low as 350 degrees C, in sharp contrast to the
commonly used high-temperature powder route. The deposition procedure can
be applied to other phosphor materials as well, allowing for efficient one-
step thin-film phosphor preparation. The prepared films were comprehensivel
y characterized. Their luminescent properties are discussed. (C) 2000 The E
lectrochemical Society. S0013-4651(00)01-025-9. All rights reserved.