Infrared energy transfer in Tm3+:LiNbO3

The infrared optical properties of LiNbO3 crystals doped with variable thulium concentrations have been studied. In particular, the infrared emissions that appear after direct pumping to the H-3(4) multiplet (795 nm) have been analyzed. The emission spectra, as well as the lifetimes, show that an efficient energy transfer between F-3(4) and H-3(4) levels takes place. The concentration dependence of the lifetimes has been studied and the transfer probability has been characterized. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.