Abstract
This paper studied the optical properties of lead oxide (PbO) thin films. To prepare thin films, pulsed laser deposition technique (PLD) was used, wherein; a Sr-90 radioisotope beta radiation was applied to the PbO thin films for varying durations. Additionally, UV–Visible technique was used pre- and post-irradiation to study the optical absorption and transmission of lead oxide (PbO) nanoparticles (NPs). The energy band gap (Eg) was calculated, and the effect of beta radiation on its value. Post irradiation, the absorption coefficients showed an increase, while the optical band gaps for PbO decreased.
•Lead oxide (PbO) thin films were prepared by PLD.•A strontium-90 radioisotope beta radiation was applied to the PbO thin films.•The effects of beta-ray irradiation on some optical properties were studied.•Changes in the optical properties are explained in terms of beta radiation.•Details of experimental methods and results are given and explained.