Cathodoluminescent phosphors

Abstract

This review outlines the general properties of cathodoluminescent phosphors, especially of ZnS∶Ag∶Cl (blue), ZnS∶Cu∶Al (green) and Y₂O₂S∶Eu (red). These phosphors, having an average particle size of 4 µm, are particularly important in the production of full-color cathodoluminescence display devices such as cathode ray tubes. The growth mechanism of ZnS phosphors with fluxes is also discussed on the basis of recent study. It is emphasized that screenable phosphor particles with chemically clean surfaces provide an optimized image quality for viewers. Furthermore, future prospects for nano- and submicron-sized phosphor particles are considered in connection with the application to field emission displays.