Gadolinium-Induced Multi-Effect on Properties of IR Transmitting Chalcogenide Glasses

We introduce gadolinium in chalcogenide glasses to exert unexpectedly the multiple magical effects on both optical and thermal mechanical properties of chalcogenide glasses. Notable increases in transition temperature T_g and microhardness H_v were observed due to structural densification and microcrystallization. Calculated molar volume values, differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray diffraction measurements provide supporting evidence. Gadolinium also acts as an oxygen getter by removing or weakening oxygen-related absorption bands, which is associated with the higher negative electrode potential.