Enhanced photoluminescence and optical properties of erbium-doped zinc tellurite glasses for visible and near-infrared photonic applications

Abstract

Erbium-doped zinc tellurite glasses are emerging as valuable materials for photonic applications, particularly in visible and near-infrared (NIR) regions, due to their strong photoluminescence and favorable optical properties. However, optimizing these glasses for high emission intensity while avoiding concentration quenching remains a challenge. This study aims to fabricate and characterize erbium-doped zinc tellurite glasses with varying erbium oxide (Er₂O₃) concentrations, focusing on their photoluminescence behavior in both visible and NIR regions. Glass samples were prepared using the melt-quenching method and analyzed through UV–Vis–NIR optical and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The results showed strong emissions in the green (550 nm) region, with optimal emission intensities at a 0.02 M fraction of erbium oxide. Additionally, broad NIR emissions were observed at 1530 nm, suitable for optical communication applications such as broadband optical amplifiers. Beyond a 0.03 M fraction, the intensity decreased due to concentration quenching, attributed to cross-relaxation mechanisms among erbium ions. Judd-Ofelt analysis and McCumber theory were applied to understand the radiative properties and gain coefficients. The study concludes that 0.02 M fraction is the optimal erbium concentration, offering a balance between high visible and NIR emission intensities and minimal quenching. These findings demonstrate the potential of erbium-doped zinc tellurite glasses for improving optical communication systems and photonic devices, paving the way for advancements in fiber amplifiers and laser technologies.