Effect of Nd~(3+) on spectroscopic properties of lithium borate glasses

The spectroscopic properties of lithium borate glasses as a function of Nd³⁺ ions concentration were reported. Optical absorption spectra of these glasses showed a number of absorption bands in ultra violet and visible region. Optical absorption edge was found to shift towards the longer wavelength (red shift) with increase in Nd₂O₃. Luminescence spectra revealed three major bands at 902, 1063 and 1334 nm which was due to ⁴F_3/2→⁴I_{9/2, 11/2 &;13/2} transitions of Nd³⁺ ions. Luminescence intensity was maximum for 1 mol.% Nd₂O₃ and further increase in Nd₂O₃ resulted in luminescence quenching. The luminescence quenching behavior at higher concentration of Nd₂O₃ was attributed to the Nd³⁺-Nd³⁺ interaction in the glass matrix. An absorption and emission property of these glasses suggested that these glasses could be useful for 1.06 μm infrared laser applications.