Dynamical processes of Ln3+ ions doped in LaF3 nanocrystals embedded in transparent oxyfluoride glass

The transverse and longitudinal relaxations from the excited electronic levels of rare earth ions (Ln3+) in nanocrystals are reviewed. Employing the frequency up-converted emission, we have studied the ion–ion interactions and the distribution of the ions within Pr3+:LaF3 nanocrystals embedded in oxyfluoride glass. The phonon-assisted energy transfer between Pr3+ ions is discussed and the relation between the energy transfer rate and the buildup of the up-converted emission is established. The results suggest that the Pr3+ concentration inside the nanocrystals is 5–10 times that of the average concentration. A jump in the energy transfer rate is observed as the concentration increases, and the possible processes behind it are discussed.