Flux growth and laser-related spectroscopic properties of (Er,Yb):LuAl3(BO3)4 crystals

Abstract

Phase relationships in the Er:Yb_xLu_1−xAl₃(BO₃)₄–K₂Mo₃O₁₀–B₂O₃–(Lu,Er,Yb)₂O₃ (x = 0–0.2, Er = 1 at%) system have been studied in the temperature range from 1150 to 900 °C. Multicomponent Li₂WO₄–B₂O₃ and K₂Mo₃O₁₀–B₂O₃–Lu₂O₃ melts were used as reasonable fluxes for the high-temperature solution growth of LuAl₃(BO₃)₄ (LuAB) single crystals. The LuAB solubility in the complex flux composition has been found at 25 wt% with decreasing temperature in the temperature interval of 1130–900 °C. (Er,Yb):LuAB single crystals were grown on dipped “point” seeds. The absorption spectra of (Er,Yb):LuAB crystals were measured at room temperature. The emission spectrum and lifetime of the ⁴I_13/2 energy level were determined.