Study of the effect of the precursor salt on the synthesis of magnesium fluoride and its influence on the optical properties

In this study, magnesium fluoride powder was synthesized using the co-precipitation method and characterized via XRD, SEM, UV–vis absorption, FTIR, PL, and TL techniques. Structural changes were observed with different cation precursors and thermal treatments. SEM revealed large, well-defined particles with smaller ones on their surface, along with adsorbed water or –OH groups. The material exhibited absorption and emission bands related to F-type color centers, which were altered by thermal treatment. The TL response varied with the precursor and heat treatment. Synthesizing MgF₂ with a chloride precursor enhanced sensitivity to UV-C radiation (254 nm). This study provides insights into MgF₂ synthesis and its properties.