University of Rochester (Structured Polarization to Control Laser Beam Propagation and Filamentation)
Abstract
Laser beams often undergo unwanted modification in beam shape as they propagate through nonlinear materials, at times even breaking up into a filamentary structure. This breakup is a serious problem for directed energy applications, where one wants an undistorted beam to fall onto a target to provide maximum intensity (P/A). We request funding at a level of $200k per year for five years.ObjectiveOur goal is to develop procedures to suppress the tendency of laser beams to breakup as they pass through a nonlinear medium. Our primary procedure will be to make use of polarization-structured laser beams, which have recently been shown to be able to suppress small-scale filamentation under one specific situation. We also strive to develop an understanding of the relation among nonlinear caustic formation, rogue wave formation, and small scale filamentation. We will also study nonlinear optical means to control the spatialconference of a laser beam, with implications for eye/sensor protection.Relevance to Navy S&T Program ObjectivesOur work on preventing small-scale filamentation can help to increase the power that can be transmitted through the earth~s atmosphere (or, alternatively, through optical materials used in laser construction), which can dramatically augment the directed-energy program. This work also holds promise for new methods for eye/sensor protection.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 25, 2019
- Source ID
- N000141912247
Entities
People
- Robert W. Boyd
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Rochester