Effect of V2O5 on structure and electrical properties of zinc borate glasses

Glasses with the compositions xV2O5·(50 − x)ZnO·50B2O3 (Series I) and xV2O5· (50 − x)B2O3·50ZnO (Series II) with (0 ≤ x ≤ 20 mol%) have been prepared using normal melt quench technique. The IR transmission spectra of the glasses have been recorded over the range 400–4000 cm−1. The changes caused by the addition of V2O5 on the structure of these glasses have been studied. The values of theoretical optical basicity have also been calculated. The density and molar volume studies indicate that V2O5 in these glasses is acting as network modifier in place of network former. Values of the direct current electrical conductivity have been measured from 373 to 623 K and the activation energy has been calculated. The variations in density, molar volume and electrical conductivity with V2O5 content have been discussed in terms of changes in the glass structure.