Auxiliaries Ce³⁺/Sb³⁺ of Sm³⁺ in borosilicate glass phosphors: Optimal utilization of energetic UV photons

Sm³⁺-doped borosilicate (NKBSB) glass phosphors have been certified to be excited by short-wave ultraviolet (UVC), long-wave ultraviolet (UVA), violet and blue radiation. Further, the introduction of Ce³⁺ and Sb³⁺ into the Sm³⁺-doped NKBSB glass system significantly extends the excitable region to the whole ultraviolet (UV) radiation region, and optimally enhances the ability of Sm³⁺ to capture energetic UV photons. Due to the intersections of energy bands, the maximum sensitization coefficient is up to 18.9 under the cooperative sensitization of auxiliaries Ce³⁺ and Sb³⁺ on Sm³⁺. More interestingly, the distinguished fluorescence emissions of Ce³⁺-Sb³⁺-Sm³⁺ tri-doped NKBSB glasses towards entire UV excitation are identified from the images and videos. The exceptional sensitization performance and outstanding excitation extension offer insights in designing UV pumping optical devices of light color adjustment and light conversion.