Tunable upconversion luminescence in new Ho3+/Yb3+-doped SrBi4Ti4O15 photochromic ceramics for switching application

Upconversion (UC) luminescence modulation is quite important in controlling and processing light for active components of light sources, photoswitches, optical memories, and optical sensing devices. In this work, we reported one kind of novel phosphor, Ho3+/Yb3+-doped SrBi4Ti4O15 ceramics, which displayed both strong UC luminescence and obvious photochromic (PC) reaction. The UC luminescence, PC effect, and the modulation of UC performance based on PC behavior were investigated in detail. By alternating visible light irradiation and thermal stimulus, the UC luminescence could be reversibly regulated. Meanwhile, the modulation was unveiled to tightly rely on the irradiation time and thermal treatment processes. Excellent reproducibility was also achieved. In addition, as an alternative method to thermal treatment, the manipulation of luminescence by electric field was also explored. Finally, the mechanism related to the UC luminescence manipulation was illustrated. The results indicate that these samples could be potentially utilized in optical data storage and anti-counterfeiting security fields.