Influence of Annealing Temperature on the Thermoluminescence Properties and Kinetic Parameters of Synthetic Quartz

Abstract

Thermoluminescence (TL) in synthetic quartz has long been a key tool in radiation dosimetry, geological applications, and archaeological dating due to its regulated flaw patterns and repeatable luminescence qualities. However, as demonstrated by earlier research, thermal annealing can impact TL sensitivity in a way that differs significantly from more substantial, long-term glow curve alterations. Nevertheless, there hasn't been much research done on how these changes might manifest in kinetic parameters such as frequency factors and activation energy. This study investigates the effects of annealing synthetic quartz specimens that had never been annealed at temperatures of roughly 500°C and 900°C on its TL characteristics. The TL glow curves were analyzed using five complementary kinetic techniques in order to reveal any changes in the kinetic model, order, recombination rate dynamics, and trap depth. The findings indicate a significant shift in the peak position of glow markings and a systematic drop in activation energy as the annealing temperature rises. The TL process surprisingly maintained first-order dynamics. The study addresses a critical gap by linking annealing-induced defect evolution with quantifiable kinetic changes, offering a pathway toward engineering synthetic quartz with tailored TL responses for specific technological applications.