BaAl2O4:Eu - Phosphor for mechanoluminescence dosimetry

BaAl2O4 phosphors having various concentration of Eu2+ were synthesized by combustion technique using hydrazine as a fuel and its mechanoluminescence (ML), thermoluminescence (TL) and photoluminescence (PL) properties were studied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of the sample confirm the formation of the phosphor and scanning electron microscope (SEM) image was recorded to observe the surface morphology. The PL emission spectrum shows a band around 500 nm under 346 nm excitation. In the TL glow curve distinct peak around 192 degrees C with a shoulder around 230 degrees C were observed for the samples having 0.25 mol% of activator concentration. Gamma dose dependence of ML and U was studied. It was found that ML intensity increases linearly in the range 0.465-1.86 kGy. Mechanism of ML excitation and suitability of BaAl2O4:Eu phosphor for radiation dosimetry have been discussed. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.