Sm3+-doped fluorophosphate glass: Formation of Ag nanoparticles via Ag+/K+ ion exchange and their effects on optical and dielectric properties

• Ag+/K+ ion-exchange has been carried out in Sm3+-doped fluorophosphate glass.
• Formation of Ag nanoparticles in the glass matrix was described.
• Surface plasmon resonance of Ag nanoparticles was discussed.
• Energy transfer mechanism from Ag to Sm3+ ion was investigated.
• Effects of Ag nanoparticles on dielectric properties were studied.

Silver–potassium ion exchange on Sm3+-doped fluorophosphate glass has been carried out via thermal diffusion method. The crystallite size of silver was estimated to be 19 nm from X-ray diffraction pattern and it was confirmed using transmission electron microscopy analysis. Assessment of the optical properties has been carried out by absorption, photoluminescence and lifetime measurements. Present glass system exhibits favorable optical properties for possible uses as optical amplifiers, sensors and planar waveguides. The energy transfer mechanism from silver to samarium and the surface plasmon resonance of silver nanoparticles are discussed for the ion exchanged glass. The dielectric studies have been carried out in order to assess the influence of silver on the dielectric properties and ac conductivity of the ion exchanged glass. Coulomb blockade effects have been discussed to clarify the enhancement in the insulating behavior of the glass by the incorporation of silver nanoparticles. The power-law and Cole–Cole parameters were determined and the influence of silver on these parameters is discussed.