Directed UV and X-ray generation in nanomaterials at the optical excitation

Efficient electromagnetic emission of radiation in the spectral range with wavelengths shorter than exciting light wavelength was observed at the nanomaterials excitation by laser pulses. Emission was registered in a visible (blue-green) range, in vacuum UV and in soft X-ray. Luminescence was registered both in the air and in the vacuum chamber. Synthetic opal matrices and nanocomposites on their base (matrices infiltrated with different liquids) were used as samples. Luminescence was excited with the help of different lasers: ruby laser, second harmonic of Nd:YAG laser and copper vapor laser. In the visible range two regimes of luminescence were observed: fast (few μs) and slow (up to 12 s). Slow luminescence was registered at temperatures lower than 110 K. Spectra of X-ray emission were registered. The connection of this emission with the triboluminescence effect is considered. (paper)