Optical spectra of Eu2+ ion doped KMgF3 single crystals grown by Bridgman method

Abstract:

High-quality KMgF3 single crystal containing 0.5 mol% europium (Eu) was prepared by an improved Bridgman method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence spectra and fluorescence lifetime were measured. The results indicate the reduction of Eu3+ to Eu2+ in the KMgF3 single crystal. Under the excitation of 259 nm, 370 nm and 394 nm, the sample has two distinct emissions of Eu2+:4f7→4f7(~363 nm) and 4f65d1→4f7 (~440 nm). The substitution site for Eu ion is confirmed. The optical property investigation result shows that the Eu2+ doped KMgF3 single crystal may be used as potential laser media and related materials for optical devices.