Spectroscopic properties and energy transfer process in Er3+ doped ZrF4-based fluoride glass for 2.7 μm laser materials

Intense 2.7 μm emission from Er3+ doped in a new type of ZrF4-based fluoride glass is reported. 2.7 μm emission characteristics and energy transfer process upon excitation of a conventional 980 nm laser diode are investigated. Based on the absorption spectra, the Judd–Ofelt parameters and radiative properties were calculated and compared with those of other glass hosts. The prepared glass possesses higher predicted spontaneous transition probability (29.04 s−1) along with larger calculated emission cross section (9.16 × 10−21 cm2). Besides, the energy transfer coefficient of laser upper level (4I11/2) can reach as high as 6.56 × 10−39 cm6/s. Hence, these results indicate that this Er3+ doped ZrF4-based fluoride glass has potential applications in 2.7 μm laser.

► Intense 2.7 μm emission is obtained in Er3+ doped ZrF4-based fluoride glass. ► Radiative properties have been determined using Judd–Ofelt theory. ► Present glass possesses high spontaneous transition probability and emission cross section. ► The energy transfer microparameters were analyzed. ► Er3+ doped ZrF4-based fluoride glass has potential applications in 2.7 μm laser.