The energy transfer efficiency from Yb³⁺ to Nd³⁺ in SrO−Pb₃O₄− ZnO−P₂O₅ glass system-Influence of lead ions

This study is focused on the principal role of Pb₃O₄ on the enhancement of 1.06 μm emission line of Nd³⁺ ion in Nd³⁺ and Yb³⁺ co-doped ZnO-SrO-P₂O₅ glass system. The concentrations of Nd₂O₃ and Yb₂O₃ are fixed, whereas Pb₃O₄ content is varied from 2.0 to 10.0 mol%. The emission spectrum of Nd³⁺ individually doped glass exhibited emission bands at 890, 1060 and 1330 nm. When the glasses are co-doped with Yb³⁺ ions and excited at 808 nm, 1060 nm emission band is found to be intensified and further strengthened with increase in the concentration of Pb₃O₄ upto 8.0 mol%. The reasons for enhancement in the intensity of this emission due to co-doping and admixing of Pb₃O₄ have been identified and discussed (in the light of varying environment of the glass network in the vicinity of rare earth ions) with the aid of the results of EPR and IR spectral studies. - Graphical abstract: Emission spectra of Nd³⁺ - Yb³⁺ co-doped Pb₃O₄ – ZnO– SrO – P₂O₅ glasses.