Abstract

SiAlON ceramics are well known for their exceptional mechanical, thermal, and chemical stability, making them ideal for demanding industrial applications such as cutting tools, equipment for molten metal handling, extrusion molds, gas turbine engines, etc. Despite these applications, the potential for photonic applications such as photon upconversion (UC) in SiAlON ceramics remains less explored. This report demonstrates broad spectral photon UC properties in Er-doped SiAlON (Er–SiAlON) ceramics, covering the ultraviolet (UV) to near-infrared (NIR) range upon 1550 nm excitation. The Er–SiAlON ceramic was synthesized by hot press sintering. X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and elemental mapping results confirmed the stabilization of the α-SiAlON phase by Er3+ ions. Optical spectra showed distinct transitions of Er³⁺ ions and high transparency of over 70 % in the mid-IR range for the sample thickness of 0.49 mm. Under 1550 nm excitation, UC emission spectra revealed UV, violet, blue, green, red, and NIR emissions. The Er³⁺ ions exhibited self-sensitization, acting both as sensitizers and activators for the UC luminescence. Decay curve analysis showed long excited state lifetimes, with ground state absorption (GSA), excited state absorption (ESA), and energy transfer UC (ETU) processes facilitating multi-photon absorption and diverse spectral emissions. Given the inherent mechanical properties of SiAlON ceramics, these findings highlight the potential of Er–SiAlON ceramics for advanced UC photonic devices operating in high-temperature and harsh environments.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.