University of California

John E Peterson

Bernardino M Penetrante

Thomas G Parham

Raymond M Brusasco

Philip Edward Miller

Joseph Arthur Menapace

Michael A Nichols

Stephen M Maricle

A method for reducing the density of sites on the surface of fused silica optics that are prone to the initiation of laser-induced damage, resulting in optics which have far fewer catastrophic defects, and are better capable of resisting optical deterioration upon exposure to a high-power laser beam.

Combined advanced finishing and UV laser conditioning process for producing damage resistant optics

The present invention provides a method for reducing the density of sites on the surface of fused silica optics that are prone to the initiation of laser-induced damage, resulting in optics which have far fewer catastrophic defects and are better capable of resisting optical deterioration upon exposure for a long period of time to a high-power laser beam having a wavelength of about 360 nm or less. The initiation of laser-induced damage is reduced by conditioning the optic at low fluences below levels that normally lead to catastrophic growth of damage. When the optic is then irradiated at its high fluence design limit, the concentration of catastrophic damage sites that form on the surface of the optic is greatly reduced.

Reduction of damage initiation density in fused silica optics via UV laser conditioning

Growing community of inventors

Livermore, CA, United States of America

John E Peterson