Effect of neutron irradiation on the high-frequency IR spectra of quartz glass
Abstract
We have studied the effect of neutron irradiation in a nuclear reactor on the high-frequency IR absorption spectra of quartz glasses. Three groups of bands were identified in the range 1400–2300 cm−1 (at 1610, 1910, and 2270 cm−1), and one group, in the range 2870–2970 cm−1. The effects of neutron dose, ambient atmosphere, and sample geometry on these bands have been assessed. The results have been correlated with the irradiation-induced changes in the fundamental modes of the glass network and the luminescent and structural properties of the glasses. Mechanisms have been proposed for the radiation-induced changes in the spectral characteristics of some of the absorption bands. We assume activation of some combined frequencies at v > 1400 cm−1 and local vibrations in the impurity region of the spectrum. High neutron doses produce marked changes in the IR spectrum, which seem to be associated with structural changes in the glass. The likely mechanism of such changes is discussed.