Miniature Passive Indicator (MPI) for MOPP Garment Degradation Indication

The objective of the proposed program is to develop and demonstrate a robust andefficient optical parametric oscillator for converting the output of a solid state,1.06 micron laser to the 8-12 mmicron band for application to laser standoff chemicalsensors. The converter will be based on nonlinear crystals that have much higherdamage threshold than the conventional AgGaSe2 type and efficiency will be improvedby placing these crystals in novel intracavity and extracavity resonator configurations.In order to improve lifetime, high damage threshold, multi-band, optics will bedeveloped for the OPO resonator, involving both advanced optical polishing techniquesand enhanced coatings. A prototype converter will be tested, resulting in a performancedata base that will be used to develop preliminary transmitter designs applicableto low and high power sensor systems.Provides a critical component for advanced laser-based sensors for remote chemicaldetection and rangefinding with commercial applications in pollution monitoring,waste site remediation, and civil defense.