Unique optical traits of Sm3+ -doped magnesium borate glass

A series of Sm³⁺-doped magnesium borate glasses were prepared using the melt quenching and characterized to determine the effects of various Sm³⁺ contents on their optical traits. The absorption and luminescence spectra of the glasses revealed ten and four significant peaks, respectively. In addition, the experimental results on the optical properties were validated using the Judd-Ofelt (J−O) analyses. The obtained J−O intensity parameters (Ω_λ with λ = 2, 4, 6) confirmed the structural changes in the host network due to the Sm³⁺ doping. The value of Ω₂ for the studied glasses indicated the covalent and asymmetric nature of the Sm³⁺− O² linkages. The achieved J−O radiative parameters (quality factor, branching ratio and stimulated emission cross-section) were highest for the glass made with 0.5 mol% of Sm³⁺, demonstrating its lasing potency. The proposed glass compositions may be beneficial for the photonic devices.