Study of the LIDT degradation of optical components by intentional organic contamination

摘要

The lifetime of optical components submitted to high laser fluences is decreased under organic contaminated environment. Our previous studies have shown that chemical species outgassed from materials present in the laser environment of the Ligne d'Integration Laser (LIL) and in the optics packaging (phthalates, silicones, and aromatic compounds) are potential contaminants for optics, In order to avoid the presence of such molecules in the Megajoule Laser (LMJ) environment, a new comprehensive program is started up using a qualified Micro-chamber/Thermal Extractor (M-CTE250 Markes International) for controlled contaminations of optics. The final target is the development of a qualification procedure to determine the compatibility of materials used for the building of the LMJ with the LMJ optics. First results of this program will be presented.