Influence of Eu3+ doping on the microstructure and nanoporous transformation of BaGa2O4 ceramics
摘要
This study investigates the evolution of the porous/nanoporous structure of BaGa2O4 ceramics upon doping with Eu3⁺ ions. It has been established that the introduction of Eu3+ leads to a redistribution of pore sizes, resulting in an overall increase in their average size. Analysis of scanning electron microscopy images using computational algorithms revealed that the average pore radius in undoped BaGa2O4 ceramics is 0.79 µm, whereas in doped samples, it increases by 11% to 0.88 µm. This indicates a modification of pore formation mechanisms under the influence of Eu3+ ions, likely associated with grain boundary mobility and densification processes during sintering. Investigation of nanopores using positron annihilation spectroscopy showed that nanopores with a size of 0.3 nm initially undergo agglomeration upon the introduction of a small amount of Eu3+, followed by fragmentation. However, at a high Eu3+ content re-agglomeration occurs. For nanopores with radii of 2–3 nm, expansion and agglomeration are observed with increasing Eu3⁺ concentration. The obtained results indicate a significant impact of Eu3+ doping on the microstructural characteristics of BaGa2O4, which may be crucial for controlling its physicochemical properties.
Graphical abstract