The integration of multi-luminescence in Sr2SnO4:xEr3+/Sm3+

Abstract

Er 3+ and Sm 3+ ions were co-doped in Sr 2 SnO 4 : x Er 3+ /Sm 3+ ceramics to achieve the integration of photo-stimulated luminescence (PSL), thermal-stimulated luminescence (TSL) and photochromism (PC) in one single material. The effect of doped Er 3+ content on the microstructure, PC, PSL and TSL of the ceramcis has been investigated. It is found that moderate Er 3+ content ( x ≤ 0.003) could enhance PC, photoluminescence and TSL performance of the ceramics. The PSL and TSL are greatly depressed when x ≥ 0.005. This variation is caused by the change of kinds of formed defects. In addition, we have proposed a new method for optical information storage using the PSL as the optical signal, in which up-conversion luminescence from Er 3+ is the reference signal. This strategy could prevent the occurring of error signal. A simple mechanism on the luminescence modulation, PC, PSL and TSL is proposed basing on the defect chemistry. The application demonstration shows the ceramics’ potential in optical devices due to their multi-functional optical properties. • PC, PSL and TSL properties of Er 3+ /Sm 3+ co-doped Sr 2 SnO 4 ceramic were investigated. • PSL occurs when 980 nm stimulated, with three peaks located at 582 nm, 622 nm and 672 nm. • The method using PSL signal can avoid the influence of original signal. • Moderate Er 3+ concentration ( x ≤ 0.003) could enhance PC, PL and TSL performance. • A new method for optical information storage based on PSL signal and UC signal has been proposed.