Crystal growth, layered structure and luminescence properties of K(2)Eu(PO(4))(WO(4))

K(2)Eu(PO(4))(WO(4)) has been prepared via the high-temperature solution growth (HTSG) method using K(2)WO(4)–KPO(3) molten salts as a self-flux and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, IR and luminescence spectroscopy. The structure of this new compound features a 2D framework containing [EuPO(6)](4−) layers, which are composed of zigzag chains of [EuO(8)](n) interlinked by slightly distorted PO(4) tetrahedra. Isolated WO(4) tetrahedra are attached above and below these layers, leaving space for the K(+) counter-cations. The photoluminescence (PL) characteristics (spectra, line intensity distribution and decay kinetics) confirm structural data concerning one distinct position for europium ions. The luminescence color coordinates suggest K(2)Eu(PO(4))(WO(4)) as an efficient red phosphor for lighting applications.