Analysis and Evaluation of Technical Data on the Photochromic and Non-Linear Optical Properties of Materials
Abstract
The overall goal of this effort is to provide technical assistance to Dr. Frank Patten (DARPA) in evaluating data on materials, especially polymers, that may be useful in the development of optical limiters for the protection of eyes and electro-optic sensors from exposure to damaging levels of laser radiation. A principle task is to assist in the development of a predictive capability in assessing the viability of various protective approaches and to determine the theoretical limitations which may exist in the use of organic materials as optical switches and limiters. Two generic molecular structures which offer the greatest near term promise for high chi-3 systems are the phthalocyanine structures and ladder polymers, especially those containing heteronuclear atoms (S or N) in the aromatic ring. In addition, both of these molecular systems tend to be thermally stable, enabling them to survive relatively large doses of absorbed laser radiation. Phthalocynanine chromphores are generally deeply colored and thus strong light absorbers. They may be limited to use as resonant chi-3 materials. Analysis and discussion of an ablative mirror/optical fuse system located at the focus of an optical device used for eye/sensor hardening has been undertaken as a tangential effort under this project. Keywords: Laser hardening. (aw)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA214050
Entities
People
- Robert F. Cozzens
Organizations
- George Mason University