Dy 3+ and Tb 3+ co-doped boro-phosphate sol–gel vitreous thin films

A new glass with the molar composition 20B2O3-60P2O5-10ZnO-5Dy2O3-5Tb2O3 was obtained by sol–gel method and deposited on silicate glass substrates by spin-coating, at different rotation speeds and number of layers. XRD proved the vitreous state of the thin films. FTIR spectroscopy revealed the borate, meta-phosphate and mixed boro-phosphate networks in the samples. SEM, combined with AFM, demonstrated the advantages of higher deposition speeds on the higher uniformity and lower roughness of the thin films. The proposed composition of the films was proved by EDS investigations, which identified all elements in the desired proportions. Absorption bands and luminescence emissions specific to Dy3+ and Tb3+ ions are identified. These multi-component films can be used for magneto-optical devices, laser mirrors and luminescent applications.