UNIQUE HIGH OUTPUT BLUE LASER FOR IMPROVED ASW CAPABILITIES

Currently available lasers are inadequate for current and future anti-submarine warfare needs. The development of high output, blue lasers have the potential to enhance airborne platform’s ability for submarine communications, detection of mines and other underwater targets. The Optical Ceramics Division of TA&T proposes to develop and demonstrate that polycrystalline Ti doped MgAl2O4 spinel is capable of achieving the high performance required of blue laser gain media for ASW applications. A systematic approach with a high probability of success is outlined that builds on TA&T’s expertise in the fabrication on transparent undoped spinel optics. It includes synthesis of high purity, Ti doped spinel nano-powders via flame spray pyrolysis (FSP), extensive powder property characterization and beneficiation, pressureless sintering trials, microstructural and physical property analyses, and optical absorption and emission measurements required for feedback optimization. An alternative powder approach for producing high quality, polycrystalline Ti:MgAl2O4 laser gain media is outlined in the Phase 1 option.