Illumination-Controlled Color Behavior in Doped Glasses

Abstract

Photochromism is the phenomenon of an object exhibiting a noticeable color change as a result of its interaction with the light illuminating it. However, this effect can be caused by a number of mechanisms. This paper examines some of these mechanisms, specifically as they pertain to glass systems. Specifically, we will investigate three general mechanisms: those resulting from direct light interactions with the glass matrix and dopants, those resulting from light interactions with inclusions within the glass, and those that do not depend on the glass matrix directly. Areas covered include rare-earth-doped silicates, smart windows, the Lycurgus cup, and commercial ‘dichro’ glass.