Flux growth and optical characterization of Cr-doped LiInGeO4

Synthesis, crystal growth, and spectroscopic characterization of Cr: LiInGeO4 belonging to olivine structure crystal family are described. Single crystals of this material were grown by flux method, using a Bi2O3-based solvent. Cr:LiInGeO4 is characterized by broad-band fluorescence in 950-1600 nm wavelength range and 7 μs room-temperature lifetime. The new material is to be very promising for tunable laser applications covering the important optical communication, eye safe, 1.2-1.6 μm wavelength range.