The high-pressure structural evolution of ErVO4 investigated by photoluminescence spectroscopy

The phase stability of ErVO4 was investigated by photoluminescence spectroscopy up to ∼ 35 GPa. The changes in spectra at ∼ 7.9 GPa, ∼20 GPa and ∼ 31 GPa suggest the existence of three phase transitions upon compression. With comparison to related rare earth orthovanadates, we suggested ErVO4 experiences zircon to scheelite to fergusonite to orthorhombic Cmca phase transition sequences. Our study provides the photoluminescence signature for various polymorphs of ErVO4, which will refine our understanding of the structural behavior of rare earth orthovanadates.