Used as a dopant in phosphors for fluorescent lamps and LED lighting, where it provides sharp red emission, enhancing color rendering. Employed in solid-state lasers for optical applications due to its luminescent properties. Serves as a component in scintillation materials for radiation detectors in medical imaging and nuclear industries. Applied in research for developing luminescent sensors and bio-imaging probes because of its long fluorescence lifetime and high sensitivity. Also utilized in the production of specialty glasses and coatings with enhanced optical performance.