Nb2O5–TeO2 and Nb2O5–Li2O–TeO2 glasses: Evaluation of elastic properties

•Elastic properties of Nb2O5–TeO2 and Nb2O5–Li2O–TeO2 glasses were evaluated and predicted.•A correlation between elastic moduli and estimated compositional parameters has been established.•The bond compression model, Makishima-Mackenzie's theory and Rocherulle et al. model were demonstrated.•Addition of Nb2O5 results in the formation of NbO6 units and strong Te–O–Nb linkages.•The discrepancy between experimental and theoretical results was explained in terms of the structural units.