Spectroscopic and structural investigations of Er3+ doped zinc bismuth borate glasses

Erbium doped glasses having composition 20ZnO·xBi2O3·(79.5 − x)B2O3 (15 ≤ x ≤ 35, x in mol%) were prepared by melt-quench technique. The spectroscopic properties were investigated using optical absorption and fluorescence spectra. The Judd–Ofelt intensity parameters, Ωλ (λ = 2, 4, 6) were determined from the spectral intensities of absorption bands in order to calculate the radiative transition probability (AR), radiative life time (τR), branching ratio (βR) for various excited luminescent states. Using the emission spectra, full width at half maximum (FWHM), stimulated emission cross-section (σe) and figure of merit (FOM) were evaluated. The high values of Judd–Ofelt parameters indicate a substantial mixing of other electronic configuration into the 4fN configuration by the random crystal field in the glasses. All the intensity parameters (Ωλ) decrease with increase in Bi2O3 content and the effect is found to be most pronounced for Ω2 values. The structural investigations of the glasses were carried out by recording the IR transmission spectra. A correlation between the network forming units with the multi-phonon relaxation rate and hence with the possibility of radiative quantum efficiency has been made. In addition, various physical and optical parameters have been determined from the measured density and refractive index values.

► Spectral properties of Er3+ doped zinc bismuth borate glasses have been analyzed. ► Judd–Ofelt intensity parameters have been evaluated from absorption bands. ► Red shift in peak wavelength with Bi2O3 is attributed to the nephlauxetic effect. ► The large value of σT reflects the suitability of glasses in amplifier devices. ► These glasses have high radiative quantum efficiency.