Influence of lithium co-dopant on the UV-stimulated thermoluminescence of Erbium-doped zirconium dioxide

Research for thermoluminescence (TL) phosphors possessing a good sensitivity for the ultraviolet light (UV) and relatively long fading has been conducted. Kinetic parameters of ZrO2 doped by Eu and Li have been studied as a potential phosphor sensible to the UV light. Quantities of lithium co-dopant were added as Li2CO3 to a mixture of ZrO2 doped with 1% Er2O3. Pellets sintered at a temperature of 1200 degrees C were irradiated with UV light. The analysis applied to the thermoluminescence glow curves of these phosphors revealed that the addition of Li enhances the TL emission of peaks at 65 degrees C and at 105 degrees C. The latter showed up good sensitivity to the UV emission, has a relatively long fading and could be a convenient peak for detection and measurements of UV light.