Abstract

Summary form only given. Crystals of KDP and DKDP with dimensions of 41/spl times/41/spl times/1 cm/sup 3/ will be used as Pockels cell and harmonic conversion elements in the world's largest laser system, the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Determining the optical performance of these crystals under NIF-like conditions and understanding the connection between optical performance and internal defect structure has been a crucial part of the effort to build this facility. The crystals must exhibit a high degree of optical homogeneity, low anomalous birefringence, low absorption, uniform phase matching and high laser damage threshold at the 1st, 2nd and 3rd harmonics of Nd:YAG in order to meet the NIF goals for conversion efficiency, energy on target and beam focusability. Here we review the results of extensive spectroscopy, interferometry, polarimetry, X-ray topography, phase matching homogeneity and laser-induced damage measurements on full-scale and/or sub-scale crystals.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.