Advanced Figure Of Merit Evaluation For CO2 Laser Optics Using Finite Element Analysis

Gary L Herrit; Herman E Reedy

doi:10.1117/12.951350

11 July 1989 Advanced Figure Of Merit Evaluation For CO₂ Laser Optics Using Finite Element Analysis

Gary L Herrit, Herman E Reedy

Proceedings Volume 1047, Mirrors and Windows for High Power/High Energy Laser Systems; (1989) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.951350
Event: OE/LASE '89, 1989, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Thermal lensing of optics used in high power CO2 laser cavities and beam delivery systems is a constant problem facing the designer and the end user. CO2 laser mirrors, used as total reflectors in the laser cavity and beam turning optics in the delivery system, play a key role in the performance of the laser system. Silicon and copper are the two most popular substrate materials used for high power CO2 laser mirrors today. The amount of thermal lensing in these mirrors depends on the amount of absorption in the mirror coating and the ability of the mirror substrate to dissipate the heat energy absorbed by the coating. Since the coating applied to silicon and copper mirrors is the same, the decision as to which substrate material to use can be based on the mechanical and thermal characteristics of the respective materials. This paper will present current data on mirror coating absorptivities, a comparison of the mechanical and thermal properties of the two substrate materials, and finally, a figure of merit analysis based on data from a finite element analysis program.

Citation Download Citation

Gary L Herrit and Herman E Reedy "Advanced Figure Of Merit Evaluation For CO₂ Laser Optics Using Finite Element Analysis", Proc. SPIE 1047, Mirrors and Windows for High Power/High Energy Laser Systems, (11 July 1989); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.951350

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