Preparation and characterization of Bi2O3-SiO2-Al2O3 based glasses of good transparency with high Bi2O3 content

► Bi2O3-SiO2-Al2O3 glasses with high Bi2O3 content were prepared for the first time. ► The glasses obtained are of high transparency, about 80% (0.6 mm thickness). ► The content of Al2O3 has a great influence on the transmittance of glasses. ► The annealing can alter the transmittance and absorption edge. ► The Hruby factor of glass is about 0.26, indicating the good stability.