Influence of the Ga addition on optical properties of Pr in Ge–Sb–Se glasses

Absorption and emission spectra for the 3H4↔(3F2, 3H6) transition of Pr3+ ions embedded in Ge–Sb–Se glasses turned out to change systematically upon the introduction of a small amout of Ga. Clear blueshift of the absorption peak wavelengths together with the decrease of absorption cross-section was evident in these glasses containing Ga. We believe that the Ga addition into the conventional covalent selenide glasses makes chemical bonds between rare earth atoms and Se atoms more ionic due to preferential location of the GaSe4 tetrahedra at the second coordination shell of a rare earth atom. Taking into consideration the hypersensitive nature of the Pr3+: 3H4↔3F2 transition, the observed blueshift may manifest the enhanced ionicity of the chemical bonds between Pr and Se in the current Ga-containing glasses.

Graphical abstract.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Ge–Sb–Se glass as one of the representative ‘strong covalent' chalcogenide glasses. ► Pr3+-doped Ge–Sb–Se glass for mid-infrared applications. ► Addition of small amount of Ga turns out to modify absorption and emission properties of Pr3+ dramatically.