Spectroscopic investigations of Nd3+ ions in B2O3–PbO–Al2O3–WO3 glasses

Spectroscopic properties of Nd3+ ions in B2O3–PbO–Al2O3–WO3 glasses have been reported. The spectroscopic parameters have been determined from absorption and emission measurements together with Judd–Ofelt analysis. Addition of lead oxide to the borate matrix significantly increases radiative parameters like radiative transition rate, measured lifetime, quantum efficiency and peak stimulated emission cross-sections. Three emission lines at 904, 1061 and 1335 nm have been registered in lead borate-based glass, which correspond to the transitions originating from the 4F3/2 level to the 4I9/2, 4I11/2 and 4I13/2 levels of Nd3+ ions, respectively. Quite large room temperature peak stimulated emission cross-section has been obtained for 4F3/2–4I11/2 transition of Nd3+ ions in lead borate based glass, which is promising for NIR laser application at 1061 nm.