Comprehensive Characterization of Nano-Eu2O3 Reinforced Borotellurite Glasses: Synthesis, Physical, Structural, and Gamma and Neutron Attenuation Properties

This study presents a systematic investigation of lithium borotellurite glasses reinforced with nano-Eu2O3, with the aim to enhance the structural stability and radiation shielding performance. Glasses were synthesized with Eu2O3 concentrations from 0 to 10 mol % and characterized through density, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that the density increased steadily from 4.030 to 4.734 g/cm3 with the Eu addition, while the molar volume also expanded, indicating that the incorporation of larger Eu3+ ions induced network expansion alongside densification. The X-ray diffraction patterns showed amorphous structures for all the compositions except Eu(n)2, which exhibited local crystallinity, later suppressed at higher Eu levels. The transmission electron microscopy pictures and energy dispersive spectroscopy mapping showed homogeneous nanoparticle distribution without clustering. Gamma-ray attenuation studies demonstrated clear improvements with Eu doping: the linear attenuation coefficient increased from 8.33 cm−1 (Eu(n)0) to 12.42 cm−1 (Eu(n)10) at 81 keV, while the half-value layer values decreased, confirming superior low-energy absorption. Experimental neutron studies revealed ΣR values comparable to standard neutron moderators, with Eu(n)10 showing a favorable balance of gamma and neutron shielding. Limitations include the restricted photon energy window and single neutron source. Future work should extend testing to higher energies, thermal/epithermal neutron ranges, and mechanical and durability assessments. Overall, nano-Eu2O3 reinforcement provides a promising pathway toward multifunctional transparent shielding glasses.