Mixing LiF in Gd2O3:Eu to enhance ultraviolet radiation induced thermoluminescent sensitivity after sintering process

It has been found that mixing of LiF in Gd2O3:Eu phosphor then sintering at 1200 °C for 4 h can greatly enhance its sensitivities both in ultraviolet (UV) radiation induced thermoluminescence (TL) and photoluminescence (PL). Both cubic (C-type) and monoclinic (B-type) crystalline structures were observed in Gd2O3:Eu phosphor, but only cubic crystalline structure has been found when this phosphor was mixed with LiF, after sintering. Some UV radiation induced TL and PL characteristics have been compared in Gd2O3:Eu phosphors, mixed with and without LiF, to confirm the role of LiF in this phosphor. The role of LiF in Gd2O3:Eu phosphor was to promote the incorporation of Eu2O3 into Gd2O3 more completely during sintering.