Structure and spectroscopic properties of Er3+ doped germanate glass for mid-infrared application

Intense 2.7 mu m emission derived from modified Er3+ doped germanate glass was reported. Raman spectrum analysis was carried out to grasp glass structure. Based on the absorption spectrum, the Judd-Ofelt parameters and radiative properties were calculated originated from Judd-Ofelt theory. 2.7 gm emission characteristics, stark splitting features and energy transfer processes upon excitation of a conventional 808 nm or 980 nm laser diode were carefully investigated. The prepared glass possesses high spontaneous transition probability (34.28 s(-1)), large calculated emission cross section (13 x 10(-21) cm(2)) and gain coefficient (5.4 cm(-1)) for the I-4(11/2) -> I-4(13/2) transition. These results indicate that Er3+ doped germanate glass has potential applications in mid-infrared lasers and amplifiers. (C) 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.