A Tb3+/Yb3+ doped calcium aluminate phosphor has been synthesized using well known combustion synthesis. The structural characterization and morphology has been studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The characteristic luminescence of Tb3+ in both upconversion and down-conversion modes, i.e. dual mode luminescence has been recorded on excitation with 976 nm and 266 nm radiation. The Stokes emission observed on 266 nm excitation also shows a characteristic of delayed fluorescence. The delayed fluorescence has been measured as a function of time and pump power. It has been correlated to the white light emission (broad continuum emission) from the host. The possible reason of association of electron hole trapping to the defect level as well as in crystal potential is suggested. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.