Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy Analysis on the Preferential Incorporation of Er 3+ Ions into Fluoride Nanocrystals in Oxyfluoride Glass‐Ceramics

The preferential incorporation of Er 3+ ions into the PbF 2 nanocrystals during the ceraming process of oxyfluoride glass was analyzed using electron energy loss spectroscopy analysis. Concentrations of Er 3+ ions were considerably higher in PbF 2 nanocrystals compared to those in the glass matrix. Changes in lineshapes of absorption spectra from Er 3+ : 4 I 15/2 → 4 I 13/2 transition and lifetimes of the excited‐state Er 3+ ( 4 S 3/2 level) ions also supported the incorporation of Er 3+ ions into PbF 2 nanocrystals.