Optical absorption and fluorescence properties of Er3+ in sodium borate glass

Spectroscopic properties of Er3+ ions in sodium borate glass have been studied. The indirect and direct optical band gaps (E-opt) and energy level parameters (Racah (E-1, E-2 and E-3), spin-orbit (xi(4f)) and configurational interaction (alpha)) are evaluated. Spectral intensities for various absorption bands of Er3+ doped sodium borate glass are calculated. Using Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters (Omega(2), Omega(4), Omega(6)), radiative transition probabilities (A), branching ratios (beta) and integrated absorption cross sections (Sigma) are reported for certain transitions. The radiative lifetimes (tau(R)) for different excited states are estimated. From the fluorescence spectra, the emission cross section (sigma(p)) for the transition, I-4(13/2) -> I-4(15/2) is reported.