Work

Laser-induced damage studies in the nanosecond regime on large-aperture anti-reflection coated ceramic Yb:YAG

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We report on laser-induced damage behaviour in the nanosecond regime of anti-reflection coated, large aperture, ceramic Yb:YAG. Experiments were carried out to identify suitable coatings for use in large-aperture DiPOLE cryogenic laser amplifiers and involved the testing of 9 coating types from 7 different coating suppliers. Comparison between ex-situ S-on-1 and raster scan test results confirmed that, in the case of large aperture optics, the raster scan protocol provides a more accurate estimate of failure levels compared to the S-on-1 protocol. Significant variability in performance under raster scan testing was observed for different coating types, with some coatings failing under irradiation at 5 J/cm 2 fluence while others surviving irradiation at 15 J/cm 2 . Comparison between raster scan results and operational experience in DiPOLE amplifiers indicates that raster-scan testing results can be used as a good indicator for suitability in operational use.

Source: Optics Express

DOI: 10.1364/oe.539745

Authors: Mariastefania De Vido, Martin Divoky, Jan Pilar, Klaus Ertel, Paul D. Mason

Institutions: Czech Academy of Sciences, FZU - Institute of Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Optical Coatings and Gratings

Subfield: Surfaces, Coatings and Films

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,270

Funders: Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851, Horizon 2020 Framework Programme, European Regional Development Fund