Structural characterization and luminescent properties of natural kyanite samples of different colors

Abstract

The characterization of minerals plays a fundamental role in the use ofnatural resources, allowing the evaluating of potential multifunctional properties and optimized use, significantly contributing to scientific advances and technology. Kyanite is a natural mineral from the aluminum silicate group. It is found in nature in different colors attributed to impurities present in its crystalline structure. This compound has excellent thermal properties and has been investigated due to its luminescence spectrum, which aims for applications in dosimetry luminescence from ionizing radiation. This project proposes to investigate the luminescent, structural, morphological, and magnetic properties of natural kyanite samples in blue and green colors and heat-treated samples at different temperatures. To fully characterize the studied samples, we propose to carry out X-ray diffraction measurements, optical absorption, Raman and FTIR spectroscopy, Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and thermoluminescence (TL). The outcomes from this work can provide valuable insights into the source of the defects responsible for the luminescence signal. We are also interested in investigating how changes in structure can impact the optical properties and evaluate potential uses of kyanite for radiation sensing purposes.