| abstract |
Disclosed is a method for producing an oxynitride powder (such as a Ca-containing α sialon powder) wherein a precursor compound containing at least M, Si Al and O elements (with M being one element or a mixture of two or more elements selected from the group consisting of Li, Mg, Ca, Sr, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb and Lu) is heated in a reducing-nitriding atmosphere, thereby reducing the oxygen content of the precursor compound while increasing nitrogen content thereof. Also disclosed is an oxynitride powder obtained by such a method. By this method, there can be obtained an oxynitride powder mainly containing a fine α sialon powder which is preferably used for phosphors and free from coloring caused by inclusion of impurities. |