Enhanced frequency upconversion in Er3+-doped sodium lead tellurite glass containing silver nanoparticles

A series of silver nanoparticle embedded in erbium-doped tellurite glasses were synthesized using a one step melt-quenching method. Density and refractive index of glasses were measured. Thermal and optical characterizations were performed and plasmon bands of elliptical nanoparticles were observed. An enhancement of green (525 and 550 nm) and red (632 nm) lines in luminescence spectra of Er3+-doped silver-embedded tellurite glass was recorded and explained by energy transfer mechanism from silver nanoparticles to erbium ion in addition to enhanced local field in vicinity of metallic nanoparticles in the glass. The presence of nanoparticles was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy imaging and reduction of silver ions to silver neutral particles discussed through the redox potential estimation in probable reactions. Silver-erbium co-doped tellurite glass exhibits strong novel optical properties which nominate it as the promising glass for laser, color displays, and photonic applications.