The present measurements of the components' surface
resistance to laser-induced damage has been completed to facilitate
development and construction of the “Luch” laser
system, a four-channel Nd-phosphate glass laser with a full
output energy of E = 14–16 kJ. The study describes
a method that, with a series of experimental data obtained from
a single sample, allows us not only to estimate the threshold
fluences, but to take into account the statistical nature of
the surface damage. In a number of experimental situations this
method makes it possible to estimate damaging fluences even
from the result of a single exposure of the studied surface.
Estimated threshold fluences for various optical elements are
presented: K8 glass, experimental phosphate laser glass KGSS-0180,
high-reflecting and antireflecting thin-film coating of elements.
The 1.054-μm radiation pulse with half-height duration of
4 ns and the irradiation spot of ∼4 mm in diameter were
used in the experiment.
Increasing the Laser-Induced Damage Threshold of Optical Components by Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Surface Finishing