Influence of NaX (X=I or Cl) additions on GeS₂–Ga₂S₃ based glasses

Chalcogenide glasses in the pseudo-ternary system NaX–GeS₂–Ga₂S₃ (X=Cl or I) were synthesized. Different series were investigated in order to highlight the influence of the sodium halide addition on two different host glasses (GeS₂)₈₀(Ga₂S₃)₂₀ and (GeS₂)₇₂(Ga₂S₃)₂₈. Macroscopic properties including density and characteristic temperatures, such as glass transition temperatures T_g and crystallization temperature T_x, were determined for a maximum molar content of NaX equal to 15%. The evolution of the optical band-gap and the chemical stability following the composition were also studied. Conductivity measurements were also performed and compared to other Li-based GeS₂–Ga₂S₃ glasses. The results were discussed taking into account the cation and anion nature and also the glass packing density. - Graphical abstract: Characterizations of NaX–GeS₂–Ga₂S₃ chalcogenide glasses (X=Cl or I). - Highlights: • Synthesis and characterization of NaX–GeS₂–Ga₂S₃ chalcogenide glasses (X=Cl or I). • We compare results with analoguous LiX-bearing glasses. • Correlation between electrical conductivity and glass packing density