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Quantum cutting mechanism in NaYF4:Tb3+, Yb3+
Qianqian Duan1, Feng Qin, Zhiguo Zhang
1Condensed Matter Science and Technology Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
Optics Letters
|February 21, 2012
Summary
We investigated the quantum cutting mechanism in Tb3+-Yb3+ codoped NaYF4 powders, finding a sublinear power dependence. This phenomenon is primarily driven by a second-order nonlinear process, not just linear downconversion.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Quantum Optics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Quantum cutting is a process where one high-energy photon generates two lower-energy photons.
- Sublinear power dependence in luminescence can complicate material applications.
- Terbium (Tb3+) and Ytterbium (Yb3+) ions are known for their luminescent properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the quantum cutting mechanism responsible for sublinear near-infrared power dependence in Tb3+-Yb3+ codoped NaYF4 powders.
- To develop a theoretical model explaining the observed anomalous power dependence.
- To identify the dominant physical processes contributing to the sublinear behavior.
Main Methods:
- Experimental measurements of Yb3+ luminescence intensity versus excitation power.
- Theoretical modeling using a quantum cutting rate equation.
- Introduction of an assessment factor to analyze the physical mechanism.
Main Results:
- The slopes of Yb3+ luminescence intensity versus excitation power were fitted to be between 0.5 and 1.
- A quantum cutting rate equation model was developed to explain the sublinear phenomenon.
- Experimental results indicated that a second-order nonlinear process is the dominant factor, combined with linear downconversion.
Conclusions:
- The sublinear near-infrared power dependence in Tb3+-Yb3+ codoped NaYF4 is primarily caused by a second-order nonlinear process.
- The developed theoretical model successfully explains the anomalous sublinear phenomenon.
- Understanding this mechanism is crucial for optimizing materials for applications requiring efficient photon downconversion.
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