Preparation and Luminescent Properties of Tm,Yb:(GdLa)2O3 Transparent Ceramics

Tm,Yb:(GdLa)2O3 nanopowders with the average diameter of approximately 70 nm were synthesized by co-precipitation methods with polyethylene glycol as dispersing agent. The prepared materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), excitation spectrum, emission spectrum and up-conversion spectra. The optimum preparation condition of the powder was calcination temperature of 850°C, La3+ doping mole fraction of 25%, pH 7, and Tm3+ doping mole fraction of 4%. The Tm,Yb:(GdLa)2O3 transparent ceramic was fabricated by cold isostatic pressing, and shows maximum infrared transmittance of 73%. The up-conversion spectra excited at 980 nm have a broad and strong blue emission band with maximum at 476 nm, which can be used as one of the new solid laser materials with the purer blue light.