Effects of nitrogen and lanthanum on the preparation and properties of La-Ca-Si-Al-O-N oxynitride glasses

► La-Ca-Si-Al-O-N glasses were synthesized at relatively low temperatures. ► Homogeneous was confirmed by backscattered electron SEM images and EDX. ► IR spectrum was done to find out the basic structural units in these glasses. ► Analysis indicated that nitrogen is more effective in modifying glass properties than La. ► Cationic field strength of La affects on the physical properties of the glasses.