Structural Properties of Al-Li-Zn Borate Glass Activated with Dysprosium (Dy3+) for Radiation Dosimeter

Abstract

This study explores the properties of Al-Li-Zn glass doped with dysprosium ions as a potential radiation dosimeter. The glass was prepared using the novel quenching technique, and various characterisations were performed to evaluate its properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the amorphous phases in the glass. UV-vis spectroscopy revealed a noticeable absorption peak in the visible region, characteristic of the dysprosium 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 dysprosium ions respectively. Significant decrease in T_g from 257°C in the undoped sample to 101°C in the doped sample, T_m of the doped sample dropped from 862°C to 815°C and T_c 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; these show that the presence of Dy³⁺ and zinc oxide altered the arrangement of the glass structure, 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 its suitable use as a dosimeter to gauge radiation exposure. The glass demonstrates stability and absorption capability, making it worth considering for radiation detection applications.