SYNTHESIS OF (La,Nd):Y_2O_3 AND (La,Yb):Y_2O_3 LASER CERAMICS AND THEIR OPTICAL PROPERTIES

摘要

Nd~(3+), La~(3+):Y_2O_3 and Yb~(3+), La~(3+):Y_2O_3transparent ceramics were reported. La~(3+) is used as a sintering additive, while Nd~(3+)and Yb~(3+) are doped as laser activators. Initially, yttria and appropriate amount of lanthanum oxide powder was dissolved in nitric acid to form a mixture of nitrate solutions. Then ammonia solution was added dropwise under stirring. After aging, the precursor gel was washed by deionized water for several times to remove the byproducts. After freeze-drying and calcinations, the powder was uniaxially compacted into pellets, followed by sintering in vacuum. The microstructure and the optical properties of the obtained transparent yttria ceramics were investigated. Fluorescence analysis shown that the obtained materials are suitable for laser applications.