Fluorescent Aluminum Oxide Crystals for Volumetric Optical Data Storage and Imaging Applications

New fluorescent aluminum oxide crystals (Al₂O₃:C,Mg) for volumetric optical data storage and imaging applications were investigated. Magnesium impurity and double oxygen vacancy aggregate defects are responsible for the main optical properties of the new material. Spectroscopic investigation of these defects in different charge states was performed. Optical absorption, excitation-emission spectra and fluorescent lifetime of the new fluorescent medium were studied. Quantum yield of fluorescence from Al₂O₃:C,Mg crystals was measured in comparison with standard laser dyes.