SEDL / STP / STP689-EB / STP39130S

Theory of Laser Damage in Dielectric Solids

Brawer, S
University of California Lawrence Livermore Laboratory, Livermore, California

Smith, WL
University of California Lawrence Livermore Laboratory, Livermore, California

Pages: 2    Published: Jan 1979

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Abstract

In this theory a new approach to the interaction of conduction band (CB) electrons with damaging radiation is considered. We assume band gaps greater than 4 ev and radiation frequencies greater than 1 ev. Two processes are required for damage. First, the incident radiation rapidly excites a few “primer” electrons from trap levels to the bottom of the CB. Next these primer electrons can either cause enough energy to be absorbed to cause damage without avalanche, or they can trigger an electron avalanche and subsequent damage. In either case a mechanism for the excited-state absorption process is required.