SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 October 1981
STP37008S

1.06 μm Laser-Induced Breakdown of CO -Laser-Polished Fused SiO

Source

Fused silica surfaces have been treated with continuous wave CO2-laser radiation in an improved raster technique. Laser damage data for 1.06-μm, 9-nsec, small-spot irradiation are presented. It is shown that a reasonably sharp transition from laser damage prone to laser damage resistant surfaces takes place over a small CO2-laser power range. The transition to high damage resistance takes place at a silica surface temperature where material flow begins to take place, as evidenced by the onset of residual strain in the CO2-processed part. These data are taken as evidence that microcrack healing is an important mechanism in increased damage resistance in CO2-polished parts. Also presented are data which show that CO2-treated surfaces have a small-spot damage threshold at least as high as the bulk damage threshold of SiO2. In addition, these treated parts show no obvious change in surface appearance, as seen in total internal reflection microscopy. They also show little change in transmissive figure. It is suggested that uniform preheating be used to eliminate the strain presently seen in CO2-treated parts.

Author Information

Temple, PA
Soileau, MJ
Price: $25.00
Contact Sales
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Developed by Committee: F01
Pages: 180–189
DOI: 10.1520/STP37008S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4820-8
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-4500-9