Influence of gamma irradiation on physical, structural, and optical properties of Dy3+ doped barium bismuth borate sodium glasses

Abstract

Barium bismuth borate sodium (BBBNDy) glasses doped with Dy2O3 (0–0.8 mol%, x = 0.2 mol%) were prepared via the melt quenching approach and examined under gamma irradiation. XRD confirmed the amorphous nature, while density measurements (4.3387–4.4743 g/cm3) revealed composition and irradiation-dependent variations. FTIR and Raman studies indicated Dy2O3-induced network modification through BO3/BO4 and BiO3/BiO6 units, with minimal structural degradation under irradiation. Optical studies revealed tunable band gaps and low Urbach energies (0.1752–0.2266 eV) reflecting good structural order. Photoluminescence spectra exhibited a strong yellow emission at 575 nm (4F9/2 → 6H13/2), with optimal intensity for BBBNDy3 glass. Gamma irradiation induced PL quenching at 575 nm, with intensity reduced by to 66.6% at 5 kGy and 87.2% at 15 kGy; still, Dy3+ emission remains detectable. These results highlight the dual role of Dy3+ ions as structural stabilisers and efficient luminescent activators, identifying BBBNDy3 glasses as a strong candidate for photonic devices operating in radiation environments.