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Refining spectroscopic calculations for trivalent lanthanide ions: A revised parametric Hamiltonian and open-source solution
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Refining spectroscopic calculations for trivalent lanthanide ions: A revised parametric Hamiltonian and open-source solution

Juan David Lizarazo-Ferro, Tharnier O. Puel, Michael E. Flatté and Rashid Zia
Physical review. B, Vol.113(7), 075127
02/13/2026
DOI: 10.1103/llzb-wrlg
url
https://arxiv.org/pdf/2503.17377View
Open Access

Abstract

The historical calculation of spectroscopic properties for trivalent lanthanide ions is a complex multistep process that has been prone to inaccuracies. In this work, we revise the parametric semi-empirical Hamiltonian and address long-standing discrepancies in the literature. We also resurface the distinctions between orthogonal and non-orthogonal operators, and use orthogonalized operators to provide an alternative parametric description. Based on experimental data available in the literature, an updated set of parameter values for the canonical case of lanthanide ions in LaF3 is presented. Additionally, we provide calculations of spontaneous emission rates and oscillator strengths for magnetic dipole transitions in the LaF3 crystal host. To ensure the replicability of our findings, we make available the open-source code qlanth, accompanied by a comprehensive set of electronic files to serve as an updated reference for future calculations.

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