The fluorescence properties of Yb3+ and Er3+ Co-doped YAl3(BO3)4 powders prepared by sol-gel method

Abstract

Yb3+ and Er3+ co-doped YAB powders were prepared by sol-gel method. The structure and fluorescence properties were investigated. XRD pattern indicated that the single phase was obtained at 1150°C and the structure belonged to rhombohedral. Under 379 nm excitation, two emissions around 983 nm and 1531 nm were observed and the effect of Yb3+ ion concentration on the emission intensity was discussed. The energy transfer was observed under 930 nm excitation and the energy transfer efficiencies for all samples were calculated. The lifetimes of 2F5/2 level of Yb3+ ion and 4I13/2 level of Er3+ ion were measured and the effect of Yb3+ ion concentration on the lifetime was also discussed. The results indicated that there was an additional mechanism for the decay of 4I13/2 level in powder samples. The Yb3+ and Er3+ co-doped YAB powders should be a potential candidate for ceramic laser materials.