Doping of transparent BeO ceramics with B 2O 3 was found to have a significant effect on the intensity of steady-state roentgenoluminescence and pulsed cathodoluminescence, as well as on the decay kinetics of the latter. Boron atoms create traps in BeO, thereby changing the 450-K thermoluminescence intensity. Ionizing radiation produces color centers in BeO ceramics. The optimal content of B 2O 3 was found to be 0.05 wt %. A deviation from this concentration leads to a decrease in the intensity of steady-state roentgenoluminescence, pulsed cathodoluminescence, and thermoluminescence. At B 2O 3 contents below 0.05 wt %, B ions substitute at the Be site. © 1999 MAHK "Hayka/Interperiodica".