Laser Crystals for Extreme Optics
Cristal Laser and CEA Paris-Saclay have set up a platform bringing together original characterization instruments to refine understanding of ultraviolet aging phenomena in non-linear optical crystals, and improve the lifetime and performance of finished products.
The CEA has brought together a wide range of lasers in a single, permanent platform, from ultra-short 20 fs to continuous operation, and from mid-infrared (3 μm) to deep UV (180 nm).
It provides manufacturers with original test and characterization resources that complement those already in use, as well as theoretical support in laser-matter interaction to guide their research, improve their processes, and specify the parameters for integrating their components into their customers’ devices.
CEA instrumentation serves as a reference for the joint development of benches installed on industrial sites (production monitoring and R&D).
The CEA is renewing its instrumentation, and applying new methods for in-depth study of the processes involved in the creation and relaxation of defects in dielectrics, induced by intense radiation on different timescales – a rich and active scientific theme. The 1st of the 4 planned benches is in routine use, while the others are under development.
In May 2023, CLOE and its partners achieved a major breakthrough by demonstrating the production of more than 45 W at 257 nm.
Project leader: Gabriel MENNERAT
