Photoluminescence of Bi³⁺ in Y₃Ga₅O ₁₂ single-crystal host

Photoluminescence spectra and decay kinetics within 10-350 K were measured in the Bi-doped Y₃Ga₅O₁₂ single crystal prepared by the micro-pulling-down technique. Temperature dependences of the decay times and the integrated emission intensities obtained from the experiment were simulated using a phenomenological two-excited-state-level model. The model provided quantitative parameters of the involved excited state levels of the Bi³⁺ luminescence centre in this host. The results are discussed in the light of already published data obtained for other Bi-doped compounds. The influence of the defects and structural irregularities of the host on the Bi³⁺ emission characteristics is discussed as well.