Abstract
Porous silica dispersed with silver nano-particles (about 3 nm) within its pores (cages) has been prepared by a new method. The microstructures, particle size distribution and optical absorption have been examined. We have found that in the process of alternating exposure to the ambient air and annealing, this new material assumes a optical switching and memory effect in the visible wave band or a reversible transition between transparency and opacity.

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