Laser-induced damage characteristics of fused silica surfaces polished to different depths using fluid jet polishing
- Univ. of Rochester, NY (United States). Lab. for Laser Energetics; Laboratory for Laser Energetics, University of Rochester
- Univ. of Rochester, NY (United States). Lab. for Laser Energetics
Deterministic finishing methods of optical components for high-peak-power laser applications that can meet the requirements for high laser damage resistance are not sufficiently developed to meet all needs. This is especially the case for ultraviolet (UV) laser applications. Fused silica is the material of choice for optics operating at UV wavelengths owing to its intrinsically large bandgap, high transparency, and excellent uniformity. Here we report on the laser damage behavior of fused silica surfaces finished by fluid jet polishing (FJP) as a function of removal depth. Fused silica test substrates were processed by FJP to depths ranging from 0.7 μm to 18 μm. Laser damage testing was conducted on these surfaces at 351 nm and 1-ns pulse lengths for both, 1-on-1 and R-on-1 testing protocols. The results for 1-on-1 testing showed no degradation in the laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) of the substrates. Instead, a gradual improvement starting at a depth of 2.1 μm was observed and continued to the 18-μm surface. At 18-μm of removal, the LIDT was 16% higher than a surface that was not finished by FJP. For R-on-1 testing, all surfaces treated by FJP demonstrated an improvement in laser damage resistance. At depths greater than 5 μm, the improvements were significantly more pronounced and a 30% increase in the LIDT was realized.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Rochester, NY (United States). Lab. for Laser Energetics
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
- Grant/Contract Number:
- NA0003856
- OSTI ID:
- 1869253
- Journal Information:
- Optical Engineering, Journal Name: Optical Engineering Journal Issue: 07 Vol. 61; ISSN 0091-3286
- Publisher:
- SPIECopyright Statement
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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