Modification of refractive index in Ag/Na ion-exchanged glasses by vacuum-ultraviolet pulse laser irradiation

Abstract

Laser-induced refractive index modification in Ag+ ion exchanged waveguides on glass substrates was observed. Waveguiding effects were measured, and an increase in refractive index of more than 2×10−3 was deduced. Refractive index profiles show that the maximum radiation-induced difference is attained 4–5 μm below the surface. Possible mechanisms for the material modification are discussed.