Photochromism enhancement in thin RbAg4I5 films using simultaneous hydrogen-induced sensitization

Abstract

A new method of enhancement of the photochromic effect in thin RbAg4I5 films has been developed, which is based on the injection of hydrogen atoms on the film surface simultaneously with its exposure to the exciting light. Hydrogen is supplied from the molecules of a specially selected organic compound, which are adsorbed on the RbAg4I5 film surface. The hydrogen-induced sensitization leads to a deep photolysis of RbAg4I5 with the formation of silver clusters and colloids, which results in a sharp change in the optical properties of the film material.