Formation of silver nanoparticles in soda–lime silicate glass by ion implantation near room temperature

• Published in: Journal of non-crystalline solids Vol. 260; no. 1; pp. 65 - 74
• Main Authors: Stepanov, A.L., Hole, D.E., Townsend, P.D.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01-12-1999
• Subjects: 78.66.Vs; 78.66.Jg; 81.05.Ys; 78.20; I220; N100
• ISSN: 0022-3093; 1873-4812
• DOI: 10.1016/S0022-3093(99)00561-X

The synthesis of silver nanoparticles in soda–lime silicate glass near room temperature is reported. Nanoparticles were prepared during 60 keV Ag-implantation with doses from 2 to 4×10
16 ions/cm
2 at a current density of 10 μA/cm
2. Detailed evaluations were made of the dose contribution at the bulk-glass temperatures of 20°C, 35°C, 50°C and 60°C. The particle size distribution was assessed by monitoring optical reflectance from both the implanted and rear face of the samples. Depth data were provided by Rutherford backscattering analysis. Samples prepared with a high dose at 60°C were characterised by more complex reflectance spectra, with overlapping peaks, compared to reflectance data for room temperature implants. Additionally, comparisons between implants of the same dose and beam conditions for glass samples of different-thickness show the influence of surface heating and its influence on Ag nanoparticle formation. The factors, which influence the growth of metal nanoparticles and the differences in the observed optical properties are discussed.