First exploration of Pr6O11 nanoparticle integration in borotellurite glasses: synthesis, characterization, and performance for enhanced mechanical strength and radiation shielding

Official URL: https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ceramint.2025.01.593

This study investigates the incorporation of Pr6O11 nanoparticles into lithium borotellurite glass matrices to enhance their mechanical and radiation shielding properties. Glass compositions, synthesized with varying Pr6O11 concentrations from 0 to 8 mol%, exhibited increasing densities from 4.00783 g cm−3 to 4.94440 g cm−3 and reduced molar volumes, confirming nanoparticle-induced densification. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed amorphous structures with shifts in the hollow band indicating compact network rearrangements. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analyses confirmed homogeneous Pr distribution up to 6 mol%, with clustering observed in 8 mol% samples. Vickers’ microhardness values progressively increased, highlighting enhanced mechanical strength due to reduced non-bridging oxygen ions and network cross-linking. Gamma-ray shielding experiments demonstrated superior performance of the 8 mol% sample (Pr8), with the highest mass attenuation coefficients, effective atomic number, and reduced half-value layer. Neutron attenuation assessments further confirmed improved shielding capabilities, with Pr8 achieving the highest effective removal cross-section. In conclusion, Pr6O11-doped lithium borotellurite glasses demonstrate significant potential for advanced radiation shielding applications.