Enhanced frequency upconversion in Er doped fluoroindate glass due to energy transfer from Tm

Energy transfer processes between Er³⁺ and Tm³⁺ were investigated examining the frequency upconversion emissions in a fluoroindate glass pumped at 790 nm. A 60-fold enhancement in the emission at ≈670 nm originating from Er³⁺ was observed when Tm³⁺ at concentration of 2% was introduced in a sample containing 2% of Er³⁺. The results are explained considering the influence of cross-relaxation processes between the active ions.