Up-converting ALD/MLD thin films with Yb3+, Er3+ in amorphous organic framework

Near-infrared to green and red up-conversion is reported for a new type of hybrid (Yb,Er)-IR-806 films prepared using the atomic/molecular layer deposition (ALD/MLD) thin-film fabrication technology. These amorphous films can be realized in controllable nanothicknesses and they show an exceptionally wide absorption band in the near-infrared region. The films exhibit a highly local up-conversion excitation process, which suggests strong potential for use as e.g. temperature sensors with Ångström scale surface resolution.