Optical properties of pure Ytterbium Alluminium perovskites

► We report the growth and optical properties of pure Ytterbium Aluminum perovskites. ► The Raman and emission properties are studied as a function of temperature. ► The PL time decay candidates YbAP crystal for the development of new scintillators. We present the first report about growth and optical properties of pure Ytterbium Alluminium perovskites single crystals (YbAlO 3). The sample crystal structure was studied and assigned by means of Raman spectroscopy while the photoluminescence measurements from Yb 3+ charge-transfer state show a broad ultraviolet emission bands with nanosecond lifetimes at room temperature. Yb emissions are also studied as a function of temperature revealing an abrupt quenching in the 180–240 K range. The fast time decay and the high material density suggest Ytterbium Alluminium perovskites crystal as a good candidate for the development of fast scintillators for high energy physics applications.