Largest Enhancement of Broadband Near-Infrared Emission of Ni2+ in Transparent Nanoglass Ceramics: Using Nd3+ as a Sensitizer and Yb3+ as an Energy-Transfer Bridge

An ultrabroadband near-infrared (NIR) emission of Ni2+ is demonstrated in a highly transparent nanoglass ceramic (nano-GC) containing Ga2O3 nanocrystals with an 808 nm excitation of Nd3+. It is also shown that by adding Yb3+ as an energy-transfer (ET) bridge, the Ni2+ emission could be substantially enhanced. The dopant distribution was studied using advanced analytical transmission electron microscopy. This, together with optical transmission measurements and steady-state and time-resolved emission spectra, is utilized to understand the underlying ET mechanisms between Nd3+, Yb3+, and Ni2+. The feasibility of this device as a viable source is demonstrated using dual-laser pumping at 808 and 980 nm for the greatest Ni2+ emission enhancement reported to date. The Nd3+/Yb3+/Ni2+ triply doped nano-GC offers a promising gain medium for broadband and tunable NIR fiber amplifiers.