Crystal structure and spectral luminescence properties of the cation-deficient garnet Ca3(Nb, Ga)2Ga3O12-Nd3+

The first combined study of a cation-deficient garnet Ca3(Nb, Ga)2Ga3O12 containing Nd3+ and Cr3+ was performed. X-ray diffraction, absorption luminescence, SE spectra, and Raman light scattering established that the crystal has a disordered structure. Interatomic distances and structural angles were determined, and the property for disordering was reevaluated. The nature of the latter is associated with the statistical incorporation of muiltivalent cations at different crystallographic sites in the garnet. The stabilizing role of defects in this structure was noted. The basic spectral luminescence characteristics of activator ions were measured, including their intensity and concentration characteristics. All lines of Nd3+ stimulated emission were identified, being observed at low and room temperatures