Strong photoluminescence through up and down conversion in Tm(3+)/Ho(3+):LaOF nanoparticles

Efficient up and down frequency conversions in Tm(3+) and Ho(3+) doped LaOF tetragonal nanocrystals have been investigated. Bright fluorescence emissions are obtained in co-doped Tm(3+)/Ho(3+):LaOF tetragonal nanocrystals through UV and infrared excitation. Green florescence from doped Ho(3+) ions, which can be clearly seen with bared eyes, is obtained when Tm(3+) ion is excited. Specific mechanism of the cross relaxation between doped ions is explored through spectroscopic measurements in time and frequency domains. About 90% energy transfer efficiency is obtained when the weak radiative and nonradiative relaxations are neglected.