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Variable attenuator for intense unpolarized laser beams.
Optics Letters
|September 24, 2009
Summary
This study introduces a novel variable attenuator using polarizing optics to control intense unpolarized laser beams dynamically. The device offers high transmission and damage threshold for laser applications.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Laser Technology
Background:
- Controlling intense unpolarized laser beams requires effective attenuation methods.
- Existing methods may have limitations in dynamic range or optical damage threshold.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a new family of variable attenuators for dynamic attenuation of intense unpolarized laser beams.
- To characterize the performance of these novel attenuators.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing polarizing optics, specifically a retardation plate between two polarization splitters in tandem.
- Varying the retardation or rotating the plate to control beam transmission.
Main Results:
- Achieved a transmission dynamic range as large as 1 to 10(-5) using sapphire polarization splitters.
- The attenuators exhibit high transmission and a high optical damage threshold.
Conclusions:
- The developed variable attenuator offers effective dynamic control of unpolarized laser beams.
- Applicable in laser material processing and Q-switching of unpolarized lasers.
