This project aims to the realization of highly efficient near-infrared (NIR) luminescent materials

based on lanthanides (Er, Yb, Nd) for applications in modern and future ICT technology. This

proposal will enable an innovative “ybrid”approach to overcome the current severe limitations

of lanthanide organic and inorganic NIR luminescent compounds, by resorting to nanocomposite

materials where the emissive active center (the lanthanide ion) will show the extraordinary longlived

luminescence of inorganic compounds but at the same time can be conveniently photoexcited

through an organic “ight-harvesting”molecule. This project also intends to investigate

silicon-integrated optical devices (lasers, amplifiers) based on the described systems and will take

advantage of the top-quality scientific expertise of the promoter, research partners and

collaborators toward this end. The expected result of this proposal will represent a significant

advancement or even a breakthrough in the field of NIR communication technologies and will pave

the way for a further step forward toward the development of emerging ICT applications, moving

from the band-limited microelectronic technology currently used to more efficient and convenient

photonic devices.