Fundamental Analytical and Experimental Studies of Laser-Matter Interactions
Abstract
In this Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) proposal to the Office of Naval Research (ONR), N00014-22-S-F004 Code 351, [Saulter, Quentin], a Short-Pulse Wavelength-Tunable Ti:Sapphire (Ti:S) Laser and a 30 GHz high-speed oscilloscope will be purchased to perform experimental validation of the fundamental effects associated with laser-matter interaction, with the goal of generating directional Mid-Wave to Long-Wave Infra-Red (MWIR-LWIR) radiation. The wavelength is in the atmospheric window 3 # 14 #m and is generated by the collinear interaction of a time-synchronized two-frequency train of short laser pulses in optical media with having a 2nd and 3rd order nonlinear susceptibility. A basic research proposal had been submitted to the Office of Naval Research, PI: Prof. Phillip Sprangle, to analyze, numerically evaluate through simulations, and perform proof-of-principle experiments to extend the modelling of the physical processes associated with the nonlinear interaction of a high-intensity laser radiation with matter. The objective of this program is to generate ultra-broadband radiation in the MWIR-LWIR atmospheric window. Purchase of the equipment listed in this DURIP proposal will support experimental studies outlined in the proposed program.In the proposed program, UMD will study fundamental processes involving the nonlinear interaction of a high-intensity laser radiation, particularly in the formatof trains of ultra-short pulses, with matter. The focus of the program is to analyze and simulate nonlinear optical processes in which laser radiation interacts with matter, e.g., nonlinear material, plasma and air. The specific areas of investigation include:1. The role played by ambient radiation in atmospheric filamentation and the generation of RF and IR radiation.2. Raman processes to detect and characterize spectral signatures by excitation of Raman modes using UV probe laser pulse trains.3. Effects of atmospheric turbulence on the propagation of laser beams having orbital angular momentum.4. Nonlinear four-wave mixing for optical phase and amplitude conjugation of short and intense laser pulses.5. MWIR-LWIR generation using time-synced, two-frequency laser pulsesThe basic research program has relevance to the Navy and DoD in areas such as: electro-magnetic interference on sensors using broadband RF, electronic countermeasures using high-power broadband IR radiation, covert communications employing laser beams with OAM and the detection and classification of hazardous chemicals and pathogens using UV Raman sensing. Furthermore, unlike incoherent IR jamming, laser-matter generated IR radiation enables much higher jam-to-signal (J/S) ratio in the bandwidth where conventional coherent sources, such as quantum cascade lasers or optical parametric oscillators (OPO) are not effective, especially in LWIR band. Directional MWIR-LWIR radiation can cover the entire IR spectral bands, .i.e., 3 # 14 #m. The theory and numericalcomponent of the program will simulate the 3D wave equation with linear and nonlinear polarization fields. A set of proof-of-principle experiments will be designed and executed by using a train of laser pulses with a tunable wavelength together with a time synchronized train of laser pulses of fixedwavelength. Experimental results will be compared and benchmarked with theory and simulation results.The program will be performed at the University of Maryland and carried out by two or more graduate students and a post-doc, using a wide range of laser facilities, including a Ti:S laser and a high-speed oscilloscope to be purchased in the first year of the proposed program and funded by the DURIP program.This proposed DURIP program is requesting $132,200 for the purchase of a set of time-synchronized lasers, and $363,460for a 30 GHz oscilloscope. The PI will be Prof. Phillip Sprangle and the Co-Pi will be Dr. Brian Beaudoin.(Approved for Public Release)
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 12, 2023
- Source ID
- N000142312319
Entities
People
- Phillip A. Sprangle
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Maryland