Improving 2.0 μm fluorescence properties of Er3+/Ho3+ co-doped oxyfluoride silicate glass-ceramics containing YF3 nanocrystals by introducing Li+ ions for mid-infrared lasers

The enhancement of mid-infrared (MIR) fluorescence emission (1800–3000 nm) was achieved by adding Li+ ions into Er3+/Ho3+ co-doped oxyfluoride silicate glass-ceramics containing YF3 nanocrystals, which was prepared by conventional melt-quenching. The introduction of Li+ ion destroys the glass network [Si–O–Al] structure, and affects the crystallization ability of the substrate glass. In addition, the crystal field effect significantly enhances the up-conversion and MIR fluorescence emission of the prepared samples, with a decay time of 4.6 ms and the maximal absorption cross section (σabs) of 1.43 × 10−20 cm−2 at 1950 nm, as well as emission cross section (σem) of 1.73 × 10−20 cm−2 at 2021 nm. The results indicate that the prepared samples have excellent fluorescence properties and can be used for MIR lasers. •Er3+/Ho3+ co-doped silicate glass ceramics containing YF3 crystals were prepared.•High thermal stability of the prepared samples can resist high energy threshold.•Samples have excellent light absorption and emission capabilities.•Lithium ions improve the mid-infrared and up-conversion emission intensity.