Upconversion and Spectroscopic Properties of Rare Earth Codoped Lead Borate Glass Matrix

Abstract

To develop efficient upconversion laser materials in the visible region an active lead borate glasses doped with Er3+/Yb3+ rare earth ions (GEY) has been studied extensively. In this investigation characterization techniques like Optical absorption, FTIR and photoluminescence were recorded and the data was analyzed. To evaluate the values of Ω2, Ω4 and Ω6 Judd-Ofelt theory has been applied to the f ↔ f transitions. Based on Judd–Ofelt theory branching ratio (βr) oscillator strength and the radiative life time (τR) values were determined. The upconversion spectra exhibited three emission bands at around 525 nm (2H11/2 ® 4I15/2), 545 nm (4S3/2 ® 4I15/2) and 660 nm (4F9/2 ® 4I15/2). The energy transfer mechanism between Yb3+ and Er3+ was discussed very clearly. Comparing the data obtained in other Er3+/Yb3+ doped materials, the lead bismuth gallium borate glasses doped with 0.6 mol% of Er2O3­/0.2 mol% of Yb2O3 ions are suitable materials for developing red upconversion lasers in the visible region.