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

The synthesis of silver nanoparticles in soda-lime silicate glass near room temperature is reported. Nanoparticles were prepared during 60 keV Ag-impl antation with doses from 2 to 4 x 10(16) ions/cm(2) at a current density of 10 mu A/cm(2). Detailed evaluations were made of the dose contribution at the bulk-glass temperatures of 20 degrees C, 35 degrees C, 50 degrees C and 60 degrees C. The particle size distribution was assessed by monitoring op tical reflectance from both the implanted and rear face of the samples. Dep th data were provided by Rutherford backscattering analysis. Samples prepar ed with a high dose at 60 degrees C were characterised by more complex refl ectance spectra, with overlapping peaks, compared to reflectance data for r oom temperature implants. Additionally, comparisons between implants of the same dose and beam conditions for glass samples of different-thickness sho w the influence of surface heating and its influence on Ag nanoparticle for mation. The factors, which influence the growth of metal nanoparticles and the differences in the observed optical properties are discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.