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

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.