Laser Eye and Sensor Protection Based on Hybrid Micro/Nano-Structured Photosensitive Layers

Human eye and optical sensors are extremely sensitive to laser radiation. The rapid development of laser technology has made portable laser systems with high energy available. The extensive and expanding use of lasers technology in modern warfare has created potential for ocular injury of military members and damage of optical sensors. As such, there is a critical demand on laser eye and sensor protection (LESP) capability against the high energy lasers. However, the advent of frequency-agile, high-powered and ultrashort-pulsed lasers in the last decade has rendered current available protective devices useless. To protect eyes or sensitive equipments from these new lasers, protective devices must be able to work instantly with a wide spectral response while providing a clear normal-viewing condition. New Span Opto-Technology Inc. proposes herein a novel method for laser eye and sensor protection based on hybrid micro/nano-structured photosensitive layers to localize light field for enhancing absorption and scattering process to meet the all above requirements. Phase I will develop a proof-of-concept LESP technique. The performance of the LESP system will be optimized in Phase II to yield a practical functional, rugged prototype with improved system performance and cost reduction to support military and commercial applications.