Efficient 2.7 μm emission and energy transfer mechanism in Er3+ doped Y2O3 and Nb2O5 modified germanate glasses

- Er3+ doped Y2O3 and Nb2O5 modified germanate glasses were prepared.
- The investigated samples possess superior thermal property.
- Judd-Ofelt parameters and radiative properties are calculated and analyzed.
- Large emission cross section and high radiative probability at 2.7 μm are achieved.
- A reasonable energy transfer mechanism is proposed.

In this paper, Er3+ doped Y2O3 and Nb2O5 modified germanate glasses possessing good thermal stability are reported. On the basis of absorption spectra and Judd-Ofelt theory, a detailed investigation of Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters (Ω2,4,6) and radiative properties is carried out. Moreover, emission cross section at 2.7 μm is calculated based on Füchtbauer-Ladenburg equation and compared with other Er3+ doped glass systems. A reasonable energy transfer mechanism is proposed. It is interesting that the emission cross section and radiative transition probability in 5 mol% Nb2O5 modified germanate glass are much larger than those with 5 mol% Y2O3. Results indicate that present germanate glasses along with excellent 2.7 μm spectroscopic performance might have potential application for mid-infrared fiber laser.

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