EFFECTS OF OXIDES IN CADMIUM MIXED HALIDE GLASS

A cadmium fluorochloride glass was doped with variable amounts of CdO, NaPO3 and NaBO2. In a general way, oxygen anions increase glass forming ability and enhance chemical durability. Maximum molar concentrations of CdO, NaBO2 and NaPO3 should not exceed 2, 10 and 15%, respectively, in order to prevent devitrification. The relation between physical properties and composition has been studied. While the evolution of the main physical parameters, i.e., transition temperature, density, refractive index and chemical durability, is not monotonous Versus CdO content, linear variations are observed with NaBO2 and NaPO3. Some oxide-containing glasses with lower refractive index, higher chemical durability and suitable thermal properties are reported. Potential use for optical fiber preform manufacturing is discussed.