Tellurium-Doped Zinc Aluminum Phosphate Glass – 5 mol% TeO₂
This unique glass sample is based on a zinc aluminum phosphate glass matrix doped with 5 mol% tellurium dioxide (TeOâ‚‚). Its most striking feature is its intense, light-dependent coloration: depending on the illumination, viewing angle, and thickness of the sample, the glass can appear deep ruby red, crimson, magenta, or bright pink.
The color does not originate from conventional ionic metal coloration. It is produced by finely dispersed tellurium nanoparticles formed within the glass matrix. These nanoscale particles interact strongly with visible light, creating the characteristic red-to-pink appearance and giving the material exceptional optical depth and brilliance.
Each piece has an individual internal structure. Small variations in nanoparticle distribution, glass thickness, and illumination can therefore produce subtle differences in color, transparency, and internal reflections. Under transmitted light, thinner areas and edges often glow bright pink or magenta, while thicker regions appear dark red or burgundy.
Product Details
- Glass system: Zinc aluminum phosphate glass
- Tellurium content: 5 mol% TeOâ‚‚
- Color: Deep red, ruby, magenta to pink
- Color origin: Tellurium nanoparticles dispersed in the glass
This material is especially suitable for element collectors, glass collectors, educational demonstrations, optical-material studies, and the display of nanoparticle-induced coloration in inorganic glass.
Please note that the apparent color may differ slightly from photographs because it changes significantly with the light source, viewing angle, background, and sample thickness.
