In the framework of metal nanocluster composite glasses for photonic application, (gold + copper)-containing silica films were synthesized by radiofrequency co-sputtering deposition technique by varying the Au/Cu ratio. To obtain the formation of metallic (alloy) nanoclusters, the deposited samples were annealed in reducing atmosphere at 900 degrees C. The linear and nonlinear optical properties of the composite glasses were investigated. In particular, the nonlinear ultrafast optical response was measured by means of the Z-scan technique at a wavelength of 527 nm with single 6 ps pulse configuration. Significant refractive and absorptive effects were observed in all the annealed samples. The two main figures of merit related to the performance of materials for optical switching device application were evaluated for all samples, showing interesting values for the Cu-rich composites. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.