Spectroscopic properties of Yb3+ ions in La2(WO4)3 crystal

Yb3+-doped La2(WO4)3 single crystals were grown by the Czochralski technique. Absorption and fluorescence spectra of the crystal were recorded at the room temperature. The stimulated emission cross-sections of Yb3+ ions were calculated using the reciprocity method and Fuchtbauer–Ladenburg formula, respectively. The fluorescence decay curves of 2F5/2 manifold of Yb3+ ions were recorded at room temperature for both crystal and powder samples. The effect of radiation trapping on the spectroscopic properties is discussed. Comparison with other Yb3+-doped laser crystals is made. The results show that Yb3+:La2(WO4)3 crystal is a promising laser material.