Abstract
The spectroscopic characteristics of Er3+-doped lead phosphate glasses have been investigated, and Judd-Ofelt analysis was used to evaluate the effect of increasing the Er3+ content on the glass matrices. The intensity-dependent Judd=-Ofelt parameters: ��(4) and ��(6) remained constant while ��(2) decreased. Photoluminescence analysis revealed a low up-conversion efficiency through the weak green (530 and 550 nm) and red (660 nm) signals that were present under excitation at 800 nm. The concentration quenching effect on the lifetime of the Er3+: 4I13/2 �� 4I15/2 (1530 nm) transition is also evaluated as a result of the addition of Er3+ to the lead phosphate glass composition. The observed relatively large reduction in the lifetime reflects the significant effects of non-radiative processes in this system. The potential use of these glasses as photonic devices is also discussed.