Structural studies of lithium boro tellurite glasses doped with praseodymium and samarium oxides

This paper reports the preparation and structural studies of praseodymium and samarium (0.5, 2 and 4 mol%) oxide doped lithium boro tellurite glasses. These materials were prepared by the quenching technique in a ceramic crucible at 950 °C. Structural characterization was performed by Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy techniques. Results from Raman analysis are in good agreement with those reported in the literature, revealing a normal glass structure for the host material. Understanding on how the glasses internal structure changed when the doping concentration increases was also assessed.

Graphical abstract[TeO4] trigonal bipyramid structural unit, which is formed by two unequivalent pair of oxygen atoms: two equatorial oxygens (Oeq) and two axial oxygens (Oax).Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Pr3+ and Sm3+ doped LBT glasses have been prepared and characterized. ► LBT glasses present normal surfaces without metallic clusters. ► Raman spectra revealed the network modifying behaviour of dopant ions.