Physical and structural properties of gamma irradiated ytterbium phosphate glasses as a nominated lasing material

Phosphate glass with composition of (P2O5)(47)-(Na2O)(23)-(Al2O3)(6)-PbO(24-x)-(Yb2O3)(x) where x = 0.1, 1 and 3 of Yb2O3 in mole % has been prepared via traditional melt-quenching method. The ultraviolet and NIR absorption spectra have been studied in the range 190-1000 nm. Also, photoluminescence spectra for glass samples exposed to excited wavelength at 915 nm or emitted wave length at 1008 nm has been investigated. The ultraviolet (UV and NIR) absorption changes due to the addition of Yb ions have been interrelated to the local structure of Yb(3+ )ions. The photoluminescence evolution and the role of UV absorption bands in the photodarkening process have been discussed. The results indicated that the strong UV absorption bands in the range at about 237 nm were primarily attributed to the spontaneous charge-transfer probability for Yb3+: F-2(5/2) -> F-2(7/2). The charge-transfer (CT) transition from O2- to Yb3+ and the position of CT bands shifted to a higher energy level. The ESR results indicate distinct paramagnetic centers for glass containing 3% Yb3+ when irradiated with 10 kGy. The results showed that some of the formed ODC can be healed by irradiation and the Al/Na/Pb/P glass network act as a good environment for Yb2O3 distribution that can decrease photodarkening effect.

Automated summary

Phosphate glass with varying percentages of Yb2O3 was prepared using traditional melt-quenching method. The study investigated the UV absorption spectra, photoluminescence spectra, and the impact of Yb3+ on the glass structure and properties. The results indicated significant influence of Yb3+ on the glass structure, with the glass network playing a role in reducing photodarkening effects.