Synthesis and thermoluminescence behavior of novel Sm3+ doped YCa4O(BO3)3 under beta irradiation

Abstract

This study investigates the luminescent properties and dosimetric potential of YCa4O(BO3)3:0.5%Sm3+ phosphor synthesized via the combustion method. Dose-response investigations unveil a noteworthy linear increment in thermoluminescence (TL) intensity, emphasizing a remarkable linearity spanning a broad dose range from 0.1 to 300 Gy. Unusual heating rate effects are explored, revealing a shift in TL glow curve peak temperature (i.e 200 °C) towards higher temperatures with increasing heating rate. Speculative models, including Kinetic Trapping Effect, Thermal Quenching Compensation, and Defect Activation Energy Changes, are proposed. The study employs the Tmax-Tstop method to identify characterize glow curve peaks, and the Initial Rise method for the low-temperature segment analysis, revealing seven distinct trap levels at various depths within the bandgap. Glow curve deconvolution using the Complex Glow Curve Deconvolution (CGCD) method delineates a multi-peak structure, offering valuable insights into luminescent mechanisms. The model exhibits a Figure of Merit (FOM) of 1.71%, within an acceptable range, affirming its reliability. However, interpretation of the activation energy and frequency factor values suggests intricate site processes, necessitating a nuanced analysis to understand the material's luminescent characteristics. The YCa4O(BO3)3:0.5%Sm3+ phosphor demonstrates promising characteristics for precise dosimetry, with linear dose response, absence of saturation effects, and intriguing heating rate behavior.