A technique for measuring radiation-induced infrared absorption in optical materials located in or near a nuclear reactor

Abstract

A technique for measuring radiation-induced absorption in optical materials located in a nuclear reactor is given. This technique uses optical fibers to couple a probe beam into the reactor volume and requires a minimum of effort to facilitate. Reactor vibrations have a minimal effect on the optical alignment and, consequently, accurate absorption measurements can be made. The technique is illustrated by measurements of radiation-induced absorption in infrasil silica at 1.06, 1.73, and 2.03 μm.