High damage threshold laser mirror
1064 nm, 20 ns, 40 J/cm² Research Electro-Optics

REO consistently delivers optics with exceptional laser damage resistance characteristics because we fabricate, coat and even test all our products within our own facility in Boulder, CO. This vertical integration is critical because reliably achieving high damage threshold requires careful control over every aspect of the design and manufacturing process. This includes precise specification and thorough inspection of incoming raw materials, followed by shaping and polishing of components in a way that minimizes subsurface damage and contamination. We then design and deposit thin film coatings using techniques that avoid contamination and minimize electric field effects during use. Performing actual measurements of both absorption and laser damage threshold are also critical, and here REO is unique because we have a well-equipped in-house laser damage testing lab with several different laser pulsewidths and wavelengths. This has two benefits. First it enables us to develop an in depth understanding of the relationship between various deposition, cleaning and post coating annealing technologies and laser damage mechanisms. And just as important, we are able to test products with higher regularity and frequency than other manufacturers, ensuring continuous evaluation and feedback for our fabrication processes. The results of all this are the ability to produce a wide range of coatings with superior and consistent laser damage resistance properties for wavelengths from 266 nm to 10.6 µm, for lasers operating from CW through the ultrafast regime.