Abstract
Barium bismuth borate sodium (BBBNDy) glasses doped with Dy(2)O(3) (0-0.8 mol%, x = 0.2 mol%) were prepared via the melt quenching approach and examined under gamma irradiation. XRD confirmed the amorphous nature, while density measurements (4.3387-4.4743 g/cm(3)) revealed composition and irradiation-dependent variations. FTIR and Raman studies indicated Dy(2)O(3)-induced network modification through BO(3)/BO(4) and BiO(3)/BiO(6) units, with minimal structural degradation under irradiation. Optical studies revealed tunable band gaps and low Urbach energies (0.1752-0.2266 eV) reflecting good structural order. Photoluminescence spectra exhibited a strong yellow emission at 575 nm ((4)F(9/2) → (6)H(13/2)), with optimal intensity for BBBNDy3 glass. Gamma irradiation induced PL quenching at 575 nm, with intensity reduced by to 66.6% at 5 kGy and 87.2% at 15 kGy; still, Dy(3+) emission remains detectable. These results highlight the dual role of Dy(3+) ions as structural stabilisers and efficient luminescent activators, identifying BBBNDy3 glasses as a strong candidate for photonic devices operating in radiation environments.