Optical properties of Sm3+-doped cadmium bismuth borate glasses

This article reports on the optical properties of cadmium bismuth borate (CdBiB) glasses doped with various concentrations of Sm3+ ions. FT-IR spectra of Sm3+:CdBiB glasses have been used to identify the functional groups present in the composition of the glasses. The emission spectra of Sm3+:CdBiB glasses have shown an intense reddish-orange emission at 600 nm (4G5/2 → 6H7/2). From the absorption spectrum, the experimental oscillator strengths were determined and have been used to calculate the Judd–Ofelt (J–O) intensity parameters. By using the J–O intensity parameters, various radiative properties have been studied and computed for the various transitions of Sm3+:CdBiB glasses. Based on the values of stimulated emission cross section, radiative transition rate and the branching ratio of the emission transition 4G5/2 → 6H7/2, it is suggested that 1.0 mol% of Sm3+:CdBiB glass is the promising luminescent material towards lasing applications. The nature of luminescence decay curves of 4G5/2 level with different concentrations of Sm3+:CdBiB glasses are also reported.

► Various concentrations of Sm3+:CdBiB glasses have been prepared. ► The emission spectra of Sm3+:CdBiB glasses have shown reddish-orange emission. ► By using the J–O theory, the radiative properties have been studied and computed. ► The nature of luminescence decay curves of 4G5/2 level of Sm3+:CdBiB glasses have been reported. ► Based on the spectral properties, it is concluded that 1.0 mol% of Sm3+:CdBiB glass is potential for laser applications.