Enhanced down conversion of photons emitted by photoexcited Er xY2-xSi2O7 films grown on silicon

Miritello, M and Lo Savio, R and Cardile, P and Priolo, F (2010) Enhanced down conversion of photons emitted by photoexcited Er xY2-xSi2O7 films grown on silicon. Physical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics, 81. ISSN 1098-0121

Abstract

Photon cutting with efficiencies up to 400% is demonstrated in Erx Y2-x Si2 O7 films grown on Si and its concentration dependence is analyzed. The cutting is the result of cross-energy-transfer processes occurring within a single rare earth (Er3+) acting as both sensitizer and activator. Similarities with upconversion are revealed and possible applications in solar cells are discussed. © 2010 The American Physical Society.