Efficient Reversible Upconversion Luminescence Modulation based on Photochromism of Lanthanides‐Doped BaMgSiO4 Glass Ceramics Toward Optical Storage Application

Abstract

AbstractTransparent glass with photochromic and luminescent properties has recently garnered considerable interest in optical storage, while the photochromic transparent glass system is still limited. Herein, it is proposed that combining transparent glass matrix with photochromic nanocrystals is an efficient strategy to develop a broader range of photochromic luminescent glass systems. The Yb3+/Tb3+ co‐doped BaMgSiO4 glass ceramics are successfully prepared by a two‐step melt‐quenching approach followed by a thermal treatment in a reducing atmosphere. The glass ceramics exhibit high transparency and distinct coloration, showing a color change between colorless and pink by alternating irradiation between 365 nm ultraviolet light and 473 nm laser. The formation of color centers in the BaMgSiO4 nanoparticles drives the coloration of such glass ceramics. Based on their photochromic and photobleaching behavior, the efficient reversible upconversion luminescence modulation can be implemented with the maximum luminescence modulation rate of 79.83%. The excellent reproducibility and anti‐fatigue of such upconversion luminescence modulation demonstrate the promising application of Yb3+/Tb3+ co‐doped BaMgSiO4 glass ceramics as an optical storage medium.