Effects of gamma-ray irradiation on optical properties of ZnO–PbO–B2O3 glasses

Effects of gamma-ray irradiation on some optical properties of xZnO · 2xPbO · (1–3x)B2O3 glasses have been studied in the wavelength range 300–800 nm. Decrease in transmittance indicates the formation of color-center defects. Values for the energy-band gap, the width of the energy tail above the mobility gap and the cut-off wavelength have been measured before and after irradiation. Changes in the optical properties are explained in terms of radiation-induced structural defects and the composition of the glass.