Effects of high dose gamma irradiation on the optical properties of Eu3+ doped zinc sodium bismuth borate glasses for red LEDs

Interaction of 10ZnO-5Na2O-10Bi2O3–74.3B2O3-0.7Eu2O3 glasses exposed to high dose gamma rays were investigated using XRD, FTIR, absorption, photoluminescence followed by thermally and optically stimulated luminescence studies. XRD analysis confirmed the amorphous nature of glasses post-irradiation. Variation in FTIR spectra revealed, structural deformation of borate groups as a result of high dose gamma irradiation. Enhanced glass absorbance and red shift in absorption edge were observed with the increase in gamma dose. Further, radiation-induced absorption coefficient confirmed the trapped charges in the forbidden energy gap supported by Tauc's plot and Urbach energy. Photoluminescence (PL) study demonstrated quenching of luminescence intensity at higher gamma doses. Lifetime of metastable 5D0 state of Eu3+ ions were estimated by the decay curves and color purity was calculated using 1931 CIE chromaticity coordinates (x,y). Thermally and optically stimulated luminescence studies reassured the existence of charges in trap centers due to irradiation. TL glow curve exhibited two broad emission peaks with the corresponding temperature being at 490 K and 625 K. Distinct TL peaks of the material and their kinetic parameters (E, S, τ and b) were determined via Computerized Glow Curve Deconvolution (CGCD) method. Linear behaviour obtained through the dose response of the glass (0.25–3 kGy) proved their suitability for dosimetric application in the food irradiation zones in addition to red LEDs (< 1 kGy).