Quantum efficiency of Nd3+-doped phosphate glass under simulated sunlight

Nd3+-doped P2O5–Al2O3–K2O–BaO (LHG-8) glasses were prepared and the internal quantum efficiency (QE) of near-infrared emission of the glasses were directly measured with a simulated sunlight source and an 800 nm laser. The stimulated emission cross section (σ) and the radiative emission lifetime (τr) were also obtained by Judd–Ofelt analysis. The QE of Nd3+:LHG-8 under the simulated sunlight was as high as 60% at the Nd2O3 concentration of 0.05 mol%, and this value was higher than those of Nd3+-doped oxide glasses, such as borosilicate, silicate, and tellurite glasses. The στr of LHG-8 was also higher than those of the other Nd3+-doped oxide glasses.

► We prepared phosphate glasses and measured quantum efficiencies. ► We calculated the stimulated emission cross section and the radiative emission lifetime. ► The QE of Nd3+:LHG-8 under the simulated sunlight was as high as 60%. ► We clarified LHG-8 is a promising candidate as a laser medium for solar pumped laser applications.