Investigations on structural, optical and mechanical parameters of Pr3+-doped oxyfluoro antimony borate glasses

This study investigates the physical, structural, optical and mechanical properties of Oxyfluoroantimony borate (OFSbB) glasses doped with Pr3+ ions, emphasizing the impact of these properties on potential optical applications. The X-Ray Diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis confirms the amorphous nature and glass composition, while optical absorption spectra indicate multiple electronic transitions from 3H4 ground state associated with Pr3+ ions. This study also explores bonding parameters, optical bandgap characteristics, and Judd-Oflet analysis, highlighting the ionic nature of bonding in the glasses. Fluorescence analysis demonstrates the emission characteristics of Pr3+ ions, with 484 nm (3P0 to 3H4) and 610 nm (1D2 to 3H4) transitions showing potential for laser applications. The mechanical properties, assessed through Vickers microhardness tests reveal increased hardness and elastic moduli with higher Pr3+ concentrations, indicating increased material strength and rigidity. Overall, OFSbBPr1.0 glass emerges as promising candidate for laser host materials due to its favorable optical and mechanical properties.