Luminescence Characteristics and Energy Transfer Dynamics of Rare-Earth Ion Co-activated Borosilicate Glasses for Solid-State Lighting Applications

Abstract

Tunable or multicolor luminescence achieved through energy transfer between the trivalent rare-earth (RE³⁺) ions doped in a single glassy host has become an interesting research topic. This chapter is primarily concerned with a systematic discussion of the luminescent properties of various RE³⁺ (Eu³⁺, Nd³⁺, Er³⁺, Dy³⁺, and Sm³⁺) ion-activated borosilicate glasses and the role of energy transfer mechanisms when they are co-doped (doubly and triply) in a single glassy matrix. A brief description of the nature and characteristics of glassy matrices and their scientific aspects as host materials for photonic applications is also included. The concepts of energy transfer dynamics required for describing the various spectroscopic aspects, the theoretical approach of co-doping, partial energy-level diagrams, significant experimental contributions, and representative data relevant to this topic from the previous works are also addressed in the scope of the chapter. Other than the characteristic luminescent features, the co-doping approach extends the luminescence over a wide range, and the factors that significantly depend on this luminescence enhancement are also discussed. Recent advances in lanthanide-activated borosilicate-based glassy matrices due to the co-doping of various RE³⁺ ions investigated by several researchers are also included in order to apply them in a wide range of lighting applications.