Near-infrared quantum cutting in Nd3+ and Yb3+ Doped BaGd2ZnO5 phosphors

Nd3+ and Yb3+ doped BaGd2ZnO5 phosphors were synthesized via high temperature solid-state method. The composition and structure have been investigated by the X-ray powder diffraction. The near-infrared quantum cutting for BaGd2ZnO5: Nd3+, Yb3+ is proved by the visible and near-infrared excitation, emission spectra and decay curves. Upon 359 nm excitation, visible and near-infrared emission of Nd3+ decrease with Yb3+ concentration increasing, and the intensities of 978 nm near-infrared emission of Yb3+ increase firstly and then decrease because of concentration quenching. The corresponding quantum cutting mechanism has been discussed through the energy level diagram. The maximum energy transfer efficiency calculated approaches 31.9%. Furthermore, the quenching concentration of Yb3+ is 7%. This study has prospect to be applied in the silicon-based solar cells to progress the conversion efficiency. (C) 2015 Optical Society of America