Structural Properties of Al-Li-Zn Borate glass activated with Dy3+ for Radiation Dosimeter

Abstract This study explores the properties of Al-Li-Zn glass doped with Dy3 + as a potential radiation dosimeter. The glass was prepared using the quenching technique, and various characterisations were performed to evaluate its properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was utilised to identify any crystalline or amorphous phases in the glass. The results indicated the formation of amorphous, as supported by the absence of XRD peaks. UV-vis spectroscopy was employed to examine the optical properties of the glass. It revealed a noticeable absorption peak in the visible region, characteristic of the Dy3 + ions. PL spectra luminous peaks at 348 nm (yellow), 529 nm (green), and 625 nm (orange hue), which corresponded to the 4H15/2 → 6P7/2, 4F9/2 → 6H15/2, 4F9/2 → 6H15/2, and 4F9/2 → 6H13/2 transitions in 1.5 and 2.5 Dy3 + respectively. Significant decrease in \({\text{T}}_{\text{g}}\)from 257°C in the undoped sample to 101°C in the doped sample, Tm of the doped sample dropped from 862°C to 815°C and Tc of the doped sample dropped from 756°C to 444°C, suggesting a reduced crystallisation threshold. FTIR analysis demonstrated that OH groups displayed peaks within the 2200 to 4000 cm range. Stretching vibrations of BO3 units occurred between 1200 and 1600. Stretching vibrations of BO4 units were observed between 800 and 1200. The results indicate that when Dy3 + ions and zinc oxide are added, the arrangement of the glass structure is altered, causing a transformation from B03 groups to B04 groups. This transformation leads to defects in a stable trap environment suitable for thermoluminescence phenomena. Considering its properties and optical characteristics, the samples with 1.5 and 2.5 mol % of Dy3 + showed remarkable thermoluminescence properties, suggesting a suitable use as a dosimeter to gauge radiation exposure. The glass demonstrates stability and absorption capability, making it worth considering for radiation detection applications.