Structural, Morphological and Thermoluminescence Properties of Mn-Doped Zinc Zirconate (ZnZrO3) Phosphors

We investigated the thermoluminescence (TL) properties of Mn-doped zinc zirconate (ZnZrO3:Mn) phosphors under beta (β) radiation. SEM revealed morphological changes with varying levels of Mn doping (0–5%), while XRD confirmed a pure cubic phase. Mn doping introduced luminescent centers, enhancing emission efficiency. Mn2+ ions facilitated green/red emissions (4T1 → 6A1), while Mn4+ contributed to deep-red emissions (2E → 4A₂), making the material suitable for optoelectronic applications. Compared to conventional phosphors, ZnZrO3:Mn exhibited superior thermal stability, enhanced luminescence, and tunable emissions. The TL dose−response showed a systematic peak shift to higher temperatures with increasing radiation dose, confirming its potential for use in accurate dosimetry. The TL glow curves displayed primary (349 K) and secondary (473 K) peaks that were influenced by heating-rate variations, which led to peak shifts and increased intensity. An innovative thermal-cleaning approach (110–336 °C) refined luminescence by stabilizing deeper traps while erasing shallow-trap signals. This combined effect of Mn doping and thermal treatment optimized ZnZrO3 phosphors’ structural, optical, and TL properties. These findings provide insights into their potential use in radiation dosimetry and display technologies, offering a new strategy for future perspective luminescent materials