Abstract: Three-dimensional precipitation of large size Au nanoparticles in gold ion-doped silicate glasses was achieved by a femtosecond laser irradiation and successive heat treatment. The effects of PbO on the precipitation of Au nanoparticles were investigated by means of optical absorption, electron spin resonance spectra and TEM. The experimental results show that, introducing PbO results in inhibition of hole-trapped centers induced by femtosecond laser irradiation, and promotion of the formation and growth of Au nanoparticles.

Key words: femtosecond laser, Au nanoparticles, PbO, silicate glass