Physical, structural and photo luminescence properties of lead boro-tellurite glasses doped with Eu³⁺ ions

Lead boro-tellurite glasses activated with europium oxide were synthesized with the aid of conventional melt quenching mode. Physical properties such as density and molar volume as a function of Eu₂O₃ concentration were determined. Structural studies have been done through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Morphological and luminescent properties have been analysed with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and spectrofluorometer, respectively. Non-crystalline character was proved by XRD and the surface morphology by SEM technique. Five luminescence emission bands were observed at different wavelengths when excited by 394 nm. The most intensive emission peak was positioned at 612 nm (red) due to ⁵D₀ →⁷F₂ transition of Eu³⁺ ion. Judd-Ofelt (JO) theory was applied to estimate various radiative parameters and to decide the suitability of the glass for technological applications. JO and the CIE Chromaticity values reveal the investigated glasses are promising materials for electro-optic applications.