Laser Damage To Optical Coatings -- A Continuing Challenge

C K Carniglia

doi:10.1117/12.938379

13 October 1986 Laser Damage To Optical Coatings -- A Continuing Challenge

C K Carniglia

Proceedings Volume 0652, Thin Film Technologies II; (1986) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.938379
Event: 1986 International Symposium/Innsbruck, 1986, Innsbruck, Austria

Abstract

Laser damage to optical coatings is often the factor which limits the fluence levels that can be achieved with high-energy laser systems. Laser damage to coatings may be caused by a number of mechanisms: the intrinsic optical properties of the coating materi-als, such as absorption; the mechanical, thermal or chemical properties of the films, such as stress, microstructure, thermal conductivity and chemical composition; and extrinsic factors, such as contamination from the polishing, cleaning and coating processes. The solution to the problem of laser damage to coatings is complicated by several factors. The coating process involves a large number of parameters, many of which are not accurately controlled or understood. Methods of characterizing the optical, mechanical, thermal and chemical properties of materials are often difficult to apply to thin films, especially with a spatial resolution of a few microns or less. In addition, several different processes may contribute to laser damage, making it difficult to isolate a single cause. Although much progress has been made in recent years, there is still a need for a long-term research effort involving the close cooperation between an experienced coating facility and a dedicated laser damage testing laboratory.

Citation Download Citation

C K Carniglia "Laser Damage To Optical Coatings -- A Continuing Challenge", Proc. SPIE 0652, Thin Film Technologies II, (13 October 1986); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.938379

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