Study of glass transition process in quasi-binary As2S3–CdS chalcogenides

The kinetics of the glass transition in the (As2S3)1 − x(CdS)x (x = 0, 2, 5) chalcogenide glass have been investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at five different heating rates under non-isothermal conditions. Two approaches, namely Moynihan and Kissinger, were used to calculate the relaxation activation energy (Eg) from the heating rate dependence of the glass transition temperature (Tg). The variability of the activation energy with temperature was correlated with the dynamic fragility parameter (m); these parameters as well as the jump of heat capacity (ΔCp) and coordination number < r> are also calculated. Based on this calculations it was concluded how much impact of the addition of CdS to the As2S3 matrix is on the thermal properties of these glasses.

► We studied the glass transition kinetics of (As2S3)100 − x(CdS)x glasses.
► Results showed decrease in Tg, Eg, < r> and m with increasing of CdS content.
► The values for ΔCp indicated no dependence upon composition.
► Examined glasses are found to be thermodynamically strong melts close to equilibrium.
► They also have polymeric and strong glass-forming liquid characteristics.