Optical spectra and excited state dynamics of Sm³⁺-doped YVO₄ and YPO₄ crystals

Single crystals of YVO₄ and YPO₄ doped with Sm³⁺ have been grown by the flux growth method. Their polarized absorption spectra, the luminescence spectra and the emission decay profiles have been measured at room temperature. The absorption spectra have been analyzed in the frame of the Judd-Ofelt Theory, and the evaluated radiative branching ratios as well as the lifetimes of the emitting level are in substantial agreement with the experimental observations. The emission decay curves have been measured for two different values of concentration in order to obtain information about the energy transfer processes in the investigated materials. - Highlights: • Sm³⁺ -doped YPO₄ and YVO₄ crystals have been grown. • The absorption spectra have been analyzed in the frame of the Judd-Ofelt Theory. • The emission properties have been investigated at room temperature.