Strengthened Glass for High Average Power Laser Applications

Kathleen A. Cerqua; Arne Lindquist; Stephen D. Jacobs

doi:10.1117/12.938060

6 April 1987 Strengthened Glass for High Average Power Laser Applications

Kathleen A. Cerqua, Arne Lindquist, Stephen D. Jacobs

Proceedings Volume 0736, New Slab and Solid-State Laser Technologies and Applications; (1987) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.938060
Event: OE LASE'87 and EO Imaging Symposium, 1987, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Recent advancements in high repetition rate and high average power laser systems have put increasing demands on the development of improved solid state laser materials with high thermal loading capabilities. We have developed a process for strengthening a commercially available Nd doped phosphate glass utilizing an ion-exchange process. Results of thermal loading fracture tests on moderate size (160 x 15 x 8 mm) glass slabs have shown a 6-fold improvement in power loading capabilities for strengthened samples over unstrengthened slabs. Fractographic analysis of post-fracture samples has given insight into the mechanism of fracture in both unstrengthened and strengthened samples. Additional stress analysis calculations have supported these findings. In addition to processing the glass' surface during strengthening in a manner which preserves its post-treatment optical quality, we have developed an in-house optical fabrication technique utilizing acid polishing to minimize subsurface damage in samples prior to exchange treatment. Finally, extension of the strengthening process to alternate geometries of laser glass has produced encouraging results, which may expand the potential for strengthened glass in laser systems, making it an exciting prospect for many applications.

Citation Download Citation

Kathleen A. Cerqua, Arne Lindquist, and Stephen D. Jacobs "Strengthened Glass for High Average Power Laser Applications", Proc. SPIE 0736, New Slab and Solid-State Laser Technologies and Applications, (6 April 1987); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.938060

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