PrPO4 synthesis by the sol-gel process was carried out using an alkoxide route. Powders purity and morphology were analyzed by means of X-ray diffraction, laser granulometry and scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, praseodymium fluorescence in that lattice was recorded by laser induced spectroscopy at room temperature. Upon excitation into the P-3(0) high energy level, emission in the red wavelength range is observed from this state as well as from the D-1(2) level. Finally, dependence of the phosphorus precursor and hydrolysis rate on the quantum efficiency was investigated. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.