Bi-doped SiO2 as a new laser material for an intense laser

We discovered a new fluorescence from Bi in SiO2 glass. A broad fluorescence spectrum (FWHM; 150 nm, peak at 1150 nm) and a long lifetime (650 μm) were observed and the quantum yield of this material was 0.66 at 500 nm excitation. These properties are useful for ultra-short pulse amplification at high efficiency.