The Laser Metrology Laboratory characterizes parameters such as absorption, scattering, and laser damage threshold of optical components with high sensitivity and reproducibility, providing measurement infrastructure traceable to international standards.
Overview
In optical systems, various optical components, particularly high-reflectivity mirrors, high-transmittance optical windows, and polarizers, are used to transmit and direct the light source to the targeted point. Since these components directly affect the performance of the systems they belong to, it is of great importance to characterize their optical properties in detail.
The purpose of the Laser Metrology Laboratory is to measure parameters such as optical absorption (2D, 3D mapping), scattering, and laser damage threshold of optical components with high sensitivity and reproducibility.
Optical absorption and scattering measurements are performed using two different systems based on interferometry and calorimetry (ISO 11551) at a wavelength of 1070 nm. Laser damage threshold tests can be performed with three different methods: S-on-1, 1-on-1 (ISO 21254), and raster scanning; at wavelengths of 1064, 532, 355, and 266 nm, in both atmospheric and vacuum environments.
Research
Weak optical absorption measurements of coated/uncoated optical components are performed in the <1 ppm - 1000 ppm range using the Photothermal Common-Path Interferometry method. 2D surface and 3D bulk absorption mapping can be performed.
Weak optical absorption measurements of coated/uncoated optical components are performed in the 1 ppm - 1000 ppm range using the Laser Calorimetry method defined by the ISO 11551 standard.
A CRD system is being developed to precisely measure the optical losses of components.
Laser-Induced Damage Threshold (LIDT) values of coated/uncoated optical components are determined by S-on-1 and 1-on-1 measurement methods (Atmospheric and vacuum environments).
Classical-LIDT and Functional-LIDT values of optical components are measured with high repeatability and low uncertainty.
High-precision gas concentration and thermodynamic gas temperature measurements can be performed.
High-resolution, non-contact surface temperature measurements are performed using phosphor materials.
Equipment
The laboratory utilizes high-precision measurement systems in compliance with international standards for the detailed characterization of optical components.
2D and 3D mapping system used to acquire the surface and absorption profiles of optics.
Hardware based on ISO 11551 to precisely measure the energy absorption of materials.
Laser systems operating at 1064, 532, 355, and 266 nm utilized for damage threshold testing.
Infrastructure that allows tests to be conducted in vacuum simulating space environment conditions.
Infrastructure
| No | Equipment / System | Brand | Model | Range / Capacity | Purpose / Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LIDT Testing Station | Custom Setup | LIDT-System | 1064, 532, 355, 266 nm | S-on-1, 1-on-1 ISO 21254 Testing |
| 2 | Calorimetry System | Custom Setup | Calorimeter-1070 | <1 ppm - 1000 ppm | Absorption characterization (ISO 11551) |
| 3 | Vacuum Environment LIDT | Custom Design | LIDT-V-System | < 10^-6 mbar | Vacuum environment testing |
Testing
Calorimetry-based absorption analysis of laser optical components.
Structural strength testing according to S-on-1 and 1-on-1 procedures.
Determination of defects and overall scattering rates on optical surfaces.
Services
Testing of optical components fully compliant with ISO standards.
Quality validation reporting for manufactured optical mirrors and laser windows.
Providing detailed graphical results on damage thresholds and absorption limits.
Validation of laser endurance under varying vacuum pressure conditions.
Application Areas
The Laser Metrology Laboratory provides testing, analysis, and consultancy services to institutions and organizations in the following sectors.