Very Low Absorption Interference Coatings for 1.0 to 1.3 Micron Laser Optics

"This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I project will develop a novel thin film deposition technology to produce oxide thin films with very low optical absorption. In this Phase I effort, we will demonstrate proof of concept for the depositiontechnology, and that the resulting films have very low optical absorption in the spectral range of interest to the MDA. We will also demonstrate that the films are suitable for integration into high power laser optics, having predictable opticalproperties and very low residual stress.In Phase II, we will develop an integrated deposition system to deposit optical coatings on large substrates. We will demonstrate that the technology can produce optical coatings on large substrates, with precise control of film thickness and uniformity.We will also design and develop functional optical interference coatings using this technology. We will demonstrate that the coatings have low optical absorption and excellent performance in high power laser applications.In phase III of this effort, will commercialize this technology for MDA needs, as well as for other potential applications. The successful conclusion of this effort will meet specific needs for coating of high power laser optics for missile defense. Wealso anticipate that the resulting optical coating technology will be useful in other areas, such as laser optics for medical, scientific, spectroscopic and materials processing applications