Reduction of photodegradation in optical fibers for excimer laser applications

Ulrich Grzesik; Heinz Fabian; Walter Neu; Georg Hillrichs

doi:10.1117/12.60225

1 August 1992 Reduction of photodegradation in optical fibers for excimer laser applications

Ulrich Grzesik, Heinz Fabian, Walter Neu, Georg Hillrichs

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 1649, Optical Fibers in Medicine VII; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.60225
Event: OE/LASE '92, 1992, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Power transmission of excimer laser radiation at 308 nm through waveguides is of growing importance in medical applications. The maximum energy densities achievable at distal fused silica optical fiber ends are limited by the surface damage threshold of fused silica and by photodegradation of the optical fiber material. Limitations due to the surface damage threshold at the front surface can be avoided by applying tapered fiber geometries. In order to minimize photodegradation effects color center formation caused by high energy UV radiation has to be reduced. This involves optimization of the fused silica material properties and the necessity of modifying the manufacturing processes. Measurements on all silica fibers at 308 nm wavelength (XeCl excimer laser) show different influences of core material manufacturing. Not only the overall decrease of transmission but also the dependence of transmission changes on the number of laser pulses and defect annealing are strongly affected. Consequences for improved performance of all silica optical fibers in angioplasty are demonstrated by measurements on specially produced samples.

Citation Download Citation

Ulrich Grzesik, Heinz Fabian, Walter Neu, and Georg Hillrichs "Reduction of photodegradation in optical fibers for excimer laser applications", Proc. SPIE 1649, Optical Fibers in Medicine VII, (1 August 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.60225

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

;

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE