Enhancing fluorescence properties in transparent glass ceramics via optimized Gd 2 O 3 /Ga 2 O 3 ratios and crystallization conditions

In this study, Gd 2 O 3 - Ga 2 O 3 -GeO 2 -Nd 2 O 3 glasses and glass ceramics were synthesized, and their structural, thermal, and crystallization characteristics were analyzed. Our findings indicate that substituting Gd 2 O 3 for Ga 2 O 3 positively influences the enhancement of bridge oxygen content and network structure stability. Heat treatments at different temperatures showed no significant impact on the crystal phase type but did alter the crystallization rate. Optimal conditions were identified: a Gd 2 O 3 /Ga 2 O 3 ratio of 0.6 facilitated the production of transparent glass ceramics containing a single-phase GdGaGe 2 O 7 nano -crystal. Notably, the glass ceramic nucleated at 780 degrees C for 24 h and crystallized at 840 degrees C for 5 min exhibited superior performance. Despite a 6% reduction in transmission rate, the emission intensity at 1060 nm increased by 1.5 times. This material holds promise for various applications in solid-state lasers operating within the 1.06 mu m region.