Modification of Ag containing photo-thermo-refractive glasses induced by electron-beam irradiation

We present the experimental investigation of formation and growth of Ag nanocrystals in silica photo-thermo-refractive glasses under the electron-beam irradiation and subsequent thermal treatment. The influence of electron irradiation fluence, current density and thermal treatment conditions on nanocrystal growth dynamic has been investigated. Theoretical models and computer simulation of main processes which take place during electron-beam irradiation are presented.