Characterization of polarizing splitter optics in extreme environments

Ryand J. F. Tucker; Matthew Olson; Gregg L. Morelli

doi:10.1117/12.2005233

6 March 2013 Characterization of polarizing splitter optics in extreme environments

Ryand J. F. Tucker, Matthew Olson, Gregg L. Morelli

Proceedings Volume 8599, Solid State Lasers XXII: Technology and Devices; 859923 (2013) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2005233
Event: SPIE LASE, 2013, San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract

Development of laser systems capable of surviving extreme conditions experienced in military applications requires mounts and components that are able to survive these conditions. The characterization of mounted and/or bonded optical assemblies in harsh environments is critical for the development of laser and optical systems for functionality in these extreme conditions. Customized mounts, bonding assemblies and packaging strategies are utilized to develop and field reliable and robust optical subassemblies. Thin film polarizers operating at 45° and polarizing beam splitter cubes were chosen for initial testing based on past experiences, advancements in optical coating and construction technologies and material properties. Shock, vibration, shear strength, tensile strength and temperature testing are performed on mounted polarizing beam splitter cubes and thin film polarizers from two manufacturers.
Previous testing showed that polarizing beam splitter cubes constructed using epoxy would become damaged in the laser resonator. The cubes being tested in this report are constructed using epoxy- free direct optical contact bonding. Thin film polarizers operating at 45° are chosen opposed to Brewster’s angle thin film polarizers to reduce the size and simplify design and construction since an optical wedge is not required. The components and mounts are each environmentally tested beyond the manufacturers’ specifications for shock, vibration, and temperature. Component functionality is monitored during and after the environmental testing. Experimental results from the testing will be discussed as will the impact on future laser resonator designs.

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Ryand J. F. Tucker, Matthew Olson, and Gregg L. Morelli "Characterization of polarizing splitter optics in extreme environments", Proc. SPIE 8599, Solid State Lasers XXII: Technology and Devices, 859923 (6 March 2013); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2005233

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KEYWORDS

Optics manufacturing

Manufacturing

Polarizers

Thin films

Laser development

Optical testing

Beam splitters

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