Short-wavelength luminescence of Eu3+-doped KGd(WO4)2 crystals

Monoclinic 5 at% Eu3+ doped KGd(WO4)2 (KGW) single crystal was synthesized by top-seeded solution growth method. The spectroscopic properties and especially short-wavelength emission of Eu3+:KGW were investigated. Absorption, emission and excitation spectra were studied at low (10 K) and at room temperature. The strongest observed luminescence band corresponded to 5D0 → 7F2 transition at 610 nm but also intense ultraviolet and visible fluorescence was observed under one-photon excitation. The Ωλ parameters as well as radiative lifetimes of the 5D0,1,2,3 states were calculated based upon the Judd-Ofelt formalism. Branching ratios and electric dipole transition probabilities were also determined, based upon obtained experimental results. Stimulated emission cross sections of the strongest 5D1,2,3 → 7FJ transitions were evaluated for this system. The obtained results indicated that Eu:KGW crystal could potentially be a short wavelength laser material. •Spectroscopic properties and short-wavelength emission of Eu3+:KGW investigation.•Judd-Ofelt formalism applied to calculate Omega parameters.•Emission from the 5D3, 5D2, 5D1 excited states of Eu3+ observed for the first time.