The afterglow effect of Mn-bearing natural LiAlSi2O6 spodumene crystals

For studied LiAlSi2O6 spodumene crystals, afterglow effect was observed and explained. The luminescence spectra under femtosecond excitation have been presented for this crystal for the first time. The emission bands of point defects in blue, besides those of Mn2+ in orange, have been measured. We demonstrate that emission from defects causes sustaining of emission of Mn2+, and thus, the afterglow phenomenon occurs. The various quantitative ratio of Mn2+ to defects causes the changes in afterglow phenomenon. [Display omitted] •Lattice defects change color and luminescence intensity of Mn-bearing silicate.•Energy transfer from lattice defects to Mn2+ enhance afterglow effect.•Irradiation changes the mutual contribution of emission from defects and Mn2+.