ZnS enhancing the infrared emission of Er3+ doped oxyfluorosulfide glasses with low hydroxyl content

Abstract

Different content of ZnS was introduced into Er3+ doped oxyfluorosulfide glasses to explore the effect on the near- and mid-infrared emission properties. The results indicate the addition of a small amount of ZnS can substantially enhance the near- and mid-infrared emission intensity. However, more ZnS (7%) will lead to glass devitrification and decrease the infrared emission intensity greatly. XRD, Raman spectra and DSC tests prove the small amount of ZnS has no obvious effect on the transparency, phonon energy and thermal properties of these glasses. FTIR spectra reveal the addition of ZnS can reduce the content of hydroxyl groups obviously, which is the main reason for the enhancement of infrared emission. Our results show that the proper amount of ZnS is beneficial to reduce hydroxyl content and enhance the near- and mid-infrared emission of these Er3+-doped oxyfluorosulfide glass.