Optically stimulated luminescence in LiCaAlF6:Eu2+ phosphor

Area of Science:

• Solid-state physics
• Materials science
• Radiation detection

Background:

• Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and thermoluminescence (TL) are crucial for radiation dosimetry.
• Developing novel phosphors with enhanced sensitivity and stability is an ongoing research area.
• Lithium calcium aluminum fluoride doped with divalent europium (LiCaAlF6:Eu(2+)) is a potential candidate for dosimetric applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the OSL and TL properties of LiCaAlF6:Eu(2+) for radiation dosimetry.
• To compare its performance against established dosimetric materials.
• To explore its potential as a new radiation dosimeter.

Main Methods:

• Continuous wave optically stimulated luminescence (CW-OSL) measurements using blue (470 nm) stimulation.
• Thermoluminescence (TL) measurements to identify glow peaks and intensity.
• Photoluminescence (PL) characterization with UV excitation (254 nm).

Main Results:

• The CW-OSL signal of LiCaAlF6:Eu(2+) is approximately 31% of that of lithium magnesium phosphate.
• The OSL depletion rate is comparable to, only three times slower than, standard phosphors.
• Strong photoluminescence with Eu(2+) emission at 369 nm was observed.
• A significant TL glow peak at ~180°C was detected, six times more intense than LiF-TLD 100.

Conclusions:

• LiCaAlF6:Eu(2+) exhibits notable OSL and TL characteristics.
• Its intense TL glow peak and comparable OSL properties suggest significant potential.
• This material warrants further investigation for its utility in radiation dosimetry.