Eye/Sensor Protection Against Laser Irradiation Ablative Mirror Devices: A Materials Assessment

The potential of the ablative mirror concept as an eye/sensor protection system is assessed from a materials science perspective. Realistic operating parameters for the ablative mirror device are determined through examinations of the critical device components. Using these operational parameters and a derived model of laser-surface interactions, the response of different mirror materials is examined. Based on the measured material responses from research literature and our calculated values, we conclude that the ablative mirror concept is not a feasible method of eye protection using typical mirror materials (assuming a device optical gain of 105 and a minimum material reflectivity of 70%). Analysis of the interaction between laser irradiation and material surfaces resulted in the identification of a number of important material parameters that can be used to guide material development and identify promising new mirror materials. Areas for future research are also suggested. Mirror, Sensor protection, Ablation, Optical fuse, Eye protection, Sensor hardening.