Luminescent Er3+ doped transparent alumina ceramics

Abstract We report on successful preparation of Er 3+ doped transparent alumina (0.1–0.17 at.%) exhibiting visible light photoluminescence using wet shaping method and hot isostatic pressing. The effects of dopant amount, type of doping powder and powder pre-treatment on final microstructure, real in-line transmittance and photoluminescence characteristics were studied. The real in-line transmittance ranged between 28 and 56%, depending on processing parameters. The transparency decreased with increased amount of dopant. The decrease is dependent on the type of doping powder and its pre-treatment. The photoluminescence spectra measured in both visible and NIR region showed typical emission bands due to the presence of Er 3+ ions. The decay profiles of the 4 S 3/2  →  4 I 15/2 transition were fitted with a 2-exponential function, with faster component in the range of 360–700 ns and slower component around 1.6-2.4 μs. The intensity of emissions and lifetime of the 4 S 3/2 level decrease significantly with increasing concentration of Er 3+ ions.