The Optical Nonlinearity of Au and Ag Nanoparticle Prepared by the γ-Radiation Method

Problem statement: The third order nonlinear optical properties of metal nanoparticles have been of interest in physical chemistry, medical diagnostics and optical devices. Gold colloidal nanoparticles are responsible for the brilliant reds seen in stained glass windows and silver particles are typically yellow. The purpose of the study was to determine the nonlinear refraction and absorption coefficient of the Au and Ag nanoparticles in PVP solution. Approach: The samples were prepared by γ-radiation method and the nonlinear optical properties of the composites were investigated using a single beam Z-scan technique with a beam power of 40 mW and operated at wavelength of 532 nm. The measurements were carried out for both Open and closed aperture Z-scan arrangements. Results: For both Au/PVP and Ag/PVP samples the results exhibited reverse saturable absorption. The closed aperture Z-scan of the nano-fluid samples revealed self-defocusing effect while the open aperture Z-scan of the samples show a reversible saturable absorption. Conclusion: The Z-scan measurement showed that silver and gold nano-fluid prepared by gamma radiation exhibited large thermal nonlinear refractive index n₂ as -8.78×10^-7 and -2.478×10^-6 cm²/W, respectively. We have also investigated nonlinear absorption of these samples and we found a large value of nonlinear absorption for Ag nanoparticle and a weak absorption for Au nanoparticle. In conclusion, the experimental result shows a good nonlinear refractive index at low laser power in which encouraging for possible applications in nonlinear optical devices.