Phosphor, light-emitting element and lighting device

1. A phosphor comprising a (Li and Eu)-containing α-SiAlON crystal represented by a general formula, Li x Eu y Si 12-(m+n) Al m+n O n N 16-n , where x+y≤2, m=x+2y, and having

a Li content of 1.8 to 3 mass %,

an Eu content of 0.1 to 1.5 mass %,

an average primary particle diameter, as determined by laser diffraction/scattering method, of 20.5 to 35 μm, and

a particle diameter (D10) at a cumulative volume of 10% in particle diameter distribution, as determined by laser diffraction/scattering method, of 4 μm or more and a particle diameter (D90) at a cumulative volume of 90% of 45 μm or less, so as to emit orange light having a peak wave length of 579 to 590 nm in a fluorescence spectrum at an excitation wavelength of 455 nm,

wherein the average primary particle diameter is determined after acid treatment of the phosphor with a mixed acid of hydrofluoric acid and nitric acid under heat.

2. A light-emitting element comprising:

the phosphor according to claim 1 ; and

a light source irradiating an excitation light to the phosphor.

3. A lighting apparatus comprising the light-emitting element according to claim 2 .

4. The phosphor according to claim 1 , wherein the average primary particle diameter is 22 to 30.5 μm, and

the particle diameter (D10) is 4.8 μm or more and the particle diameter (D90) is 43.4 μm or less.

5. The phosphor according to claim 1 , wherein using a lithium nitride powder as raw materials.

6. The phosphor according to claim 1 , wherein the average primary particle diameter is 22 to 35 μm.

7. The phosphor according to claim 1 , wherein the average primary particle diameter is 26.5 to 35 μm.

8. The phosphor according to claim 1 , wherein the average primary particle diameter is 30.5 to 35 μm.