Si nanoclusters coupled to Er3+ ions in a SiO2 matrix for optical amplifiers

► CW and TR PL studies done in the IR and VIS to understand the transfer mechanism. ► Fast transfer (100 ns) mainly to level 4I11/2 by Si-nc intraband recombination. ► Empirical rate equation model of the Si-nc to Er ions transfer mechanism. ► Quantification of Er contents characterising the material as an amplifier medium. ► The invertible Er3+ content is lower than the content indeed absorbing.