Laser-Induced Photochromic Centers in Ce(3+):La2Be2O5

Intense 355-nm excitation of the lowest 4f to 5d transition of Ce(3+):La2Be2O5 leads to a brownish coloration of the crystal due to the formation of stable photochromic centers. These centers are characterized by a broadband absorption spectrum that spans the 220-840 nm spectral range. Since they can be readily bleached by optical excitation into their absorption band, the centers are photochromic. They are produced by a two-step photoionization of Ce(3+) ions followed by attachment of the detached electrons at trapping sites in the crystal. The dependence of the number of centers on laser intensity and length of exposure have been measured, and the kinetics of growth have been studied.