On the graphite-induced UV transparency in phosphate glasses

Abstract In this Communication, the origin of the graphite-induced UV transparency in phosphate glasses is scrutinized beyond the commonly accepted reduction of metal impurities. A systematic study was carried out by melting phosphate glasses with increasing amounts of graphite powder. Subsequent characterizations were performed by UV/Vis transmission, photoluminescence, 31P nuclear magnetic resonance and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. The data points to a structural modification accompanying the enhanced UV transparency. A model accounting for P O C bond formation and the generation of reactive oxygen species is proposed in line with the new structural view suggested.