A simple and rapid solution route has been proposed to deposit dense, adherent, mirror-like Eu:YVO₄ film. Structure (XRD), morphological (TEM), and optical (UV-Vis-NIR and PL) characterizations of the films were presented. It was confirmed that the well-crystallized Eu:YVO₄ films with (200) preferential orientation consisting of nano-size grains were successfully prepared by the microwave irradiation assisted chemical bath deposition techniques. The optical properties indicated the characteristic strong emission of Eu^{3＋ 5}D₀-⁷F₂ in the as-prepared crystalline Eu:YVO₄ film under UV excitation, due to an efficient energy transfer from the VO₄3－ group to Eu^3＋ ions.

Key words: Eu:YVO₄ thin film, chemical bath deposition, microwave irradiation