Effect of γ-irradiation on structure and properties of Nd³⁺ doped Perovskite

Perovskite is one of the potential host matrices for immobilization of high level nuclear waste. In the present investigation Nd³⁺ doped BaZrO₃ materials were synthesized by conventional solid state route and their phase structure was evaluated by X-ray diffraction technique. Phase pure Nd³⁺ doped BaZrO₃ materials were exposed to gamma radiation and their defects in structure as well as strain produced was measured. Structural defects and morphology before and after gamma irradiation were investigated using photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis. Both undoped and Nd³⁺ doped BaZrO₃ compositions showed excellent resistant to gamma irradiation with no change in structure, morphology and optical properties. - Highlights: • BaZrO₃ Perovskite is a candidate host matrix for nuclear waste. • γ-irradiation study on rare earth doped BaZrO₃. • Structure-property evaluation by spectroscopic and electron microscopic methods. • BaZrO₃ Perovskite is resistant to γ-irradiation.