Characterization and optical properties of Fe2O3-PbO-B2O3 glasses

Heavy metal-based oxide glasses of compositions xFe2O3.(40-x)PbO.60B2O3 have been synthesized by the standard melt-quenching technique. The amorphous nature of these samples is ascertained by XRD patterns. Scanning Electron Microscope is used to study the microstructure of the samples. The absorption edge (λcut-off) shifts toward longer wavelengths with an increase in Fe2O3 content in the glass matrix. Study of absorption edge signifies the glassy nature of the samples. The values of optical band gap energy for indirect allowed and forbidden transitions have been determined and it is found that it decreases with increasing Fe2O3 content. The Urbach’s energy is used to characterize the degree of disorder in the studied samples.