Spectroscopic properties and energy transfer of Tm(3+)/Ho(3+)-codoped TeO(2)-WO(3)-ZnO glasses for 1.47mum amplifier.

We report on spectroscopic properties and energy transfer of Tm(3+)/Ho(3+)-codoped tungsten tellurite glasses for 1.47microm amplifier. Fluorescence spectra and the analysis of energy transfer indicate that Ho(3+) is an excellent codopant for 1.47microm emission. Comparing with other tellurite glasses, the radiative lifetime of the (3)H(4) level of Tm(3+) in tungsten tellurite glass is slightly lower, but the spontaneous emission probability, stimulated emission cross-section and the figure of merit for bandwidth are obviously larger. Although the pump efficiency of tungsten tellurite amplifier is approximately 50% less than that of fluoride glass, the figure of merit for bandwidth is approximately three times larger in tungsten tellurite glass than in fluoride glass. The results indicate that Tm(3+)/Ho(3+)-codoped tungsten tellurite glass is attractive for broadband amplifier.