Optical behaviour of samarium doped potassium yttrium double phosphates

Among a wide variety of solid state materials, alkali lanthanide double phosphates are the subject of extensive spectroscopic investigations for their application as laser active materials. The edge of absorption in this compound is at rather high energies, which makes them suitable as efficient host for luminescent materials. Spectroscopic properties of Sm³⁺-doped K₃Y(PO₄)₂ are reported basing on the high resolution absorption and emission spectra for various temperatures mainly at 4, 10, and 293 K from UV to IR range. The effects of concentration and temperature on intensities and shape of the observed bands were studied. Radiative transition probabilities were calculated from absorption spectra and Judd–Ofelt parameters evaluated. The excited state dynamics will be discussed based on the decay time measurement. - Highlights: • Sm³⁺: K₃Y(PO₄)₂ crystals were synthesized via a solid-state reaction. • The spectroscopic properties of the samples were investigated at 293 and 11 K. • Concentration quenching mechanisms and possible relaxation channels were discussed. • The Judd–Ofelt intensity parameters are calculated. • Sm³⁺: K₃Y(PO₄)₂ is a promising material for 405 nm pumped phosphor.