Nonlinear optical properties and thermal lensing of PVA doped with green synthesized Ag-Cu nanoparticles

Ag-Cu nanoparticles were synthesized by the reduction of Ag and Cu ions in aqueous solution using Mimosa pudica as reducing agent. Nonlinear optical response of the PVA doped with Ag-Cu nanoparticles (Ag-CuNPs@PVA) was studied using open-aperture Z-scan technique. Ag-CuNPs@PVA showed higher nonlinear absorption than that of Ag NPs and Cu NPs alongside a better optical limiting property as revealed in nonlinear transmission studies. Nonlinear studies thus indicate Ag-CuNPs@PVA as an efficient material for photonic applications. Further, investigations on thermal diffusivity of the PVA doped with Ag-Cu nanoparticles using a dual beam mode match experimental set-up have revealed an enhanced thermal diffusivity for the sample.