Improving 2.0 μm fluorescence properties of Er3+/Ho3+ co-doped oxyfluoride silicate glass-ceramics containing YF3 nanocrystals by introducing Li+ ions for mid-infrared lasers.

The enhancement of mid-infrared (MIR) fluorescence emission (1800–3000 nm) was achieved by adding Li+ ions into Er3+/Ho3+ co-doped oxyfluoride silicate glass-ceramics containing YF 3 nanocrystals, which was prepared by conventional melt-quenching. The introduction of Li+ ion destroys the glass network [Si–O–Al] structure, and affects the crystallization ability of the substrate glass. In addition, the crystal field effect significantly enhances the up-conversion and MIR fluorescence emission of the prepared samples, with a decay time of 4.6 ms and the maximal absorption cross section (σ abs) of 1.43 × 10−20 cm−2 at 1950 nm, as well as emission cross section (σ em) of 1.73 × 10−20 cm−2 at 2021 nm. The results indicate that the prepared samples have excellent fluorescence properties and can be used for MIR lasers. • Er3+/Ho3+ co-doped silicate glass ceramics containing YF 3 crystals were prepared. • High thermal stability of the prepared samples can resist high energy threshold. • Samples have excellent light absorption and emission capabilities. • Lithium ions improve the mid-infrared and up-conversion emission intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]