Innovative Light-Activated Solid State Optical Material for Broadband Sensor Protection

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop an all-solid-state optical limiter for the protection of both mobile military optical systems (e.g., tank periscopes) as well as the human eye. These broadband sacrificial elements will attenuate laser radiation throughout the visible by the rapid formation of irreversible, carbonized spots at relatively low fluences. Attenuation factors of at least 10^4 are possible using the proposed blackening mechanism, sufficient for protection against typical battlefield threat lasers. From previous damage measurements performed at PSI, we anticipate that the carbonized regions will form and begin attenuating the incoming radiation within the first nanosecond or so of the threat beam. The approach is very robust, allowing us to tailor the material properties for optimized response (a.) in optical systems of different f#’s, and (b.) for a wide range of threat scenarios. In Phase I, we will perform proof-of-concept tests, and then deliver one or more samples to the sponsor.