A structural approach by MAS NMR spectroscopy of mechanisms occurring under β-irradiation in mixed alkali aluminoborosilicate glasses

Two series of mixed Na/K and Na/Li aluminoborosilicate glasses have been irradiated with electrons of 1.8 MeV at doses close to 10⁹ Gy. Si, B and Al glass former environment changes under irradiation have been probed by MAS NMR spectroscopy. It was shown that the mixed alkali effect acts on the middle range compositions by operating with a selective blockage in irradiated glasses, depending on the alkali nature and concerning either modifier or charge compensator alkalis.