Application of Gel-Silica Optics to Laser Technology and Optical Element Fabrication
Abstract
Three main areas of activity are summarized in this report: (a) The creation of novel optical materials i.e. composites of gel-silica with materials such as pm.m.ma. (acrylic) so as to achieve invariance of the refractive index or optical path during thermal expansion -- a new class of optical materials for worldwide use. (b) The impregnation of porous gel-silica with anthracene, for example, to create a solid composite material capable of emitting blue light by electro-luminescence. This area of activity is aimed at the fabrication of solid state devices that can fill the gap not currently filled by semiconducting devices. Porous gel-silica anthracene complexes may provide at least an intermediate class of devices capable of providing reasonably pure blue light emission under electrical excitation. (c) The impregnation of porous gel-silica with imaging monomer to create thick volume optical elements for optical systems. The methodology is reasonably straightforward and leads to the formation of lenses or gratings in the volume of thick silica layers. Such materials are optically useful for beam steering, head up displays and other applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA255666
Entities
People
- Nicholas J. Phillips
Organizations
- Loughborough University