Radiation-induced transmission spectral variations of Ce3+-doped heavy germanate glasses

Radiation-induced transmission spectral variations of Ce3+-doped heavy germanate glasses used as scintillating materials are presented. Glass matrix contains mainly GeO2, BaO and Gd2O3 with a density higher than 5 g/cm3. Glasses are melted in the different atmosphere. The transmission spectra of glasses before and after radiation treatments are measured and compared. Unlike exhibiting the monotonous deterioration effect on the glass matrix, radiation plays the radiation protection role, even making enhanced transmission of Ce3+-doped glasses, depending upon glass melting atmosphere and radiation dose. Radiation-induced reducing and oxidizing mechanism is proposed to explain phenomena.