Spectroscopic properties and fluorescence dynamics of Er3+ and Yb3+ in Y2SiO5

The results of an analysis of the optical properties of Er³⁺ and (Er³⁺, Yb³⁺) doped Y₂SiO₅ single crystals that have been grown by the Czokralski method are presented. These crystals emit a very interesting fluorescence in the eye-safe spectral range around 1550 nm and they can be pumped efficiently with laser diodes at around 980 nm. It is argued that comparable laser properties to that of the well-known phosphate glasses can be obtained