Physical Aspects Of Laser-Induced Damage Of Optical Coatings

Arthur H. Guenther; Thomas W. Humpherys

doi:10.1117/12.935525

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28 November 1983 Physical Aspects Of Laser-Induced Damage Of Optical Coatings

Arthur H. Guenther, Thomas W. Humpherys

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Proceedings Volume 0401, Thin Film Technologies I; (1983) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.935525
Event: 1983 International Technical Conference/Europe, 1983, Geneva, Switzerland

Abstract

The motivation for research on laser induced damage in optical thin films is quite obvious to any individual working with high power lasers, since the principal limiting constraint in the design and operation of high power laser systems is performance degradation due to the interaction of intense coherent light with optical elements in the system. It is of concern in the normal operation of high power laser systems and in the design and performance of efficient lasers. Increased power loading (watts per square centimeter of laser irradiation) would enable the design, fabrication, and utilization of more compact laser systems with greater yield and lighter weight, which, for most applications, offer tremendous advantages. Mechanisms involved in laser induced damage in optical thin films will be discussed.

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Arthur H. Guenther and Thomas W. Humpherys "Physical Aspects Of Laser-Induced Damage Of Optical Coatings", Proc. SPIE 0401, Thin Film Technologies I, (28 November 1983); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.935525

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