BaAl2O4:Eu – Phosphor for mechanoluminescence dosimetry

BaAl2O4 phosphors having various concentration of Eu2+ were synthesized by combustion technique using hydrazine as a fuel and its mechanoluminescence (ML), thermoluminescence (TL) and photoluminescence (PL) properties were studied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of the sample confirm the formation of the phosphor and scanning electron microscope (SEM) image was recorded to observe the surface morphology. The PL emission spectrum shows a band around 500 nm under 346 nm excitation. In the TL glow curve distinct peak around 192 °C with a shoulder around 230 °C were observed for the samples having 0.25 mol% of activator concentration. Gamma dose dependence of ML and TL was studied. It was found that ML intensity increases linearly in the range 0.465–1.86 kGy. Mechanism of ML excitation and suitability of BaAl2O4:Eu phosphor for radiation dosimetry have been discussed.

► Polycrystalline BaAl2O4:Eu phosphor were easily synthesize by combustion technique.
► ML was excited by dropping a load on to the sample.
► ML intensity increases linearly in the range 0.465–1.86 kGy.
► Enhancement of ML intensity with γ-irradiation makes it suitable for ML dosimetry.