Effect of X-ray and UV laser irradiation on optical properties of alkali-containing glasses

The results of complex X-ray and ultraviolet (UV) nanosecond laser radiations action on alkali-containing silicate glasses is presented.It is shown that under the action of X-ray radiation color centers with luminescent properties appear in glasses. This is caused by the increase of concentration of glass network structural defects. Under the action of laser radiation the destruction of these defects takes place, accompanied by the bleaching of glass and by the disappearance of luminescence. The dynamic of glass bleaching under the laser action and the influence of alkali metals ions (Li, Na, K) on this precess is studied. The mechanisms of color centers destruction by laser radiation are proposed.