Thermoluminescence and radiation-induced volume changes in CaF2 (Mn,RE) materials

The thermoluminescence properties of various CaF₂ materials (natural fluorite, CaF₂-glass ceramics and enamels) doped with RE oxides and Mn are investigated in details. Volumetric measurements show that γ-irradiation leads to a change in the volume density of powder samples of these materials. Depending on the character of the sample, positive (increased volume) or negative dilatation (decreased volume) can be observed during irradiation with doses within the range 1 C/kg–9 C/kg. As time elapses, the radiation-induced alteration of the sample volume is relaxed and after 2–3 months reaches again the initial volume density of the sample. The unexpected result of radiation-induced volume changes are discussed in details accounting for supplementary X-ray, electron microscopy and EPR studies.