Photoluminescence in Gd2O3: Er3+, Yb3+ upconversion inverse opal

Photoluminescence properties of Gd2O3: Er3+, Yb3+ upconversion inverse opal photonic crystals were investigated. The photoluminescence spectra of the inverse opal show strong dependence on upconversion emission intensity and the corresponding photonic band-gaps of the inverse opal. Significant suppression of the green or red upconversion emission was observed if the photonic band-gap overlaps with the Er3+ ions emission band. The color purity of the red or green emission was improved in the inverse opal by the suppression of green or red UC emission. We believe that the present work will be valuable for not only the foundational study of upconversion emission modification but also new optical devices in upconversion lighting and display.

► Upconversion (UC) inverse opals of Gd2O3: Yb, Er were prepared.
► Red or green UC emission was suppressed by controlling the structure of inverse opal.
► The color purity of the red or green emission was improved in the inverse opal.