Effect of silver ions and clusters on the luminescence properties of Eu-doped borate glasses

Abstract Silver ions and clusters were applied to Eu 3+ -doped borate glasses via the Ag + –Na + ion exchange method. Eu 3+ /Eu 2+ ion luminescence enhancement was achieved after silver ion exchange. Absorption spectra showed no band at 420 nm, which indicates that silver nanoparticles can be excluded as a silver state in the glass. Silver ion aggregation into clusters during the ion exchange process may be inferred. The effect of silver ions and clusters on rare earth emissions was investigated using spectral information and lifetime measurements. Significant luminescence enhancements were observed from the energy transfer of Ag + ions and clusters to Eu 3+ /Eu 2+ ions, companied with the silver ions aggregated into the clusters state. The results of this research may extend the current understanding of interactions between rare-earth ions and Ag species.