Formation of Eu-Doped CaF<sub>2</sub> Naonocrystals in Glass-Ceramics by Infrared Laser Irradiation

Abstract

Glass-ceramic was precipitated on the oxyfluoride glass surface by thermal annealing with a CO2 laser and a heat gun. Micro x-ray diffraction showed the formation of CaF2 ain the exposed region to the laser. Dopant distribution in glass ceramics was probed by confocal fluorescence microscope by observing much strong emission from Eu ions than the glassy area under 405 nm excitation. Much enhanced visible emissions under 365 nm excitation also showed well incorporation of Eu3+ ions into a crystalline environment.