Effect of γ-irradiation on optical absorption of Al2O3–TeO2–Li2B4O7 glasses doped with MgF2

The effect of γ-radiation on the optical properties of the glassy system [xMgF2–10Al2O3-(40-x) TeO2–50Li2B4O7], (x = 0, 15, 20 and 40 mol%) has been investigated. Samples were prepared by conventional melt-quench technique. The density and molar volume were estimated and found to decrease with increasing MgF2 concentration. The obtained data indicate that the glass structure becomes less tightly packed with increasing the MgF2 concentration. The effect of γ-irradiation (5, 20, 40 and 70 kGy) on optical absorption has been studied. It was observed that γ-radiation enhances the formation of NBOs. This leads to a decrease in the optical band gap energy. Radiation induced changes include hole trapping by bridging oxygen causing the increase of B–O bond length.

► The effect of irradiation on glasses usually depends on the type and energy of irradiation.
► Effects of gamma ray-irradiation on the optical properties of glasses are important.
► Borate glasses containing transition metal (TM) oxides are very interesting materials for radiation dosimetry applications.
► Addition of MgF2 to the glass matrix enhances the formation of the color center under the effect of ionizing radiation.