An intra-Nd 3+ visible to infrared conversion process in hybrid xerogels

Abstract

The luminescence spectra of a series of Nd 3+-based hybrid xerogels were reported. The organic/inorganic matrix, classed as di-ureasils, is a siliceous network to which short polyether-based chains are grafted by means of urea bridges. The luminescent centers were incorporated as neodymium triflate. These multi-wavelength phosphors present a broad green–blue emission band associated with the hybrid backbone and a series of infrared emissions which were assigned to the 4F 3/2→ 4I 9/2–13/2 intra-4 f 3 lines. The visible emission spectra provides strong evidence for the existence of an unusually intra-Nd 3+ conversion process of visible light in infrared luminescence.