SEDL / STP / STP911-EB / STP28967S

Optical Properties of Diamond-Machined Metal Surfaces and Their Relationship to Physical and Chemical Surface Perfection

Decker, DL
Michelson Laboratory, Physics Division Naval Weapons Center, China Lake, California

Hurt, HH
Michelson Laboratory, Physics Division Naval Weapons Center, China Lake, California

Porteus, JO
Michelson Laboratory, Physics Division Naval Weapons Center, China Lake, California

Grandjean, DJ
Michelson Laboratory, Physics Division Naval Weapons Center, China Lake, California

Pages: 10    Published: Jan 1985

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Abstract

It has been demonstrated that copper and other metal surfaces can be diamond single-point machined (DSPM) to a surface quality which will result in nearly intrinsic optical properties. Especially interesting is the observation of the interrelationship of laser-induced melt and slip thresholds for DSPM copper for different surface preparation methods. Particularly important parameters are the machining fluid and the tool geometry. Both of these factors influence the degree of cold work introduced into the surface. In a companion paper at this conference, the nature of the surface damage is correlated with machining conditions. In this paper, the same surfaces are described optically. Significant variation in optical and mechanical properties can be demonstrated. The ability to change the characteristics including laser damage properties of the machined surface can be used in some cases to advantage, to actually tailor the surface to the requirements of a specific application.