We are engaged in a comprehensive effort to understand and model the initiation and growth of laser damage initiated by surface contaminants. This includes, for example, the initial absorption by the contaminant, heating and plasma generation, pressure and thermal loading of the transparent substrate, and subsequent shockwave propagation, "splashing"

No abstract

SummaryStarting from the absorption of laser energy at a subsurface nanoparticle in fused silica, we simulate the consequent buildup of stresses and resulting mechanical material damage . The simulation indicates the formation of micropits with size comparable to a wavelength, similar to experimental observation. Possible mechanisms for enhanced local light absorbtion are discussed.

We are engaged in a comprehensive effort to understand and model the initiation and growth of laser damage initiated by surface contaminants. This includes, for example, the initial absorption by the contaminant, heating and plasma generation, pressure and thermal loading of the transparent substrate, and subsequent shockwave propagation, "splashing"

T'MSis an informal report intended primarily for internal or limited external distribution. The opinions and conclusions stated are those of the author and may 7 or may not be those of the Laboratory. Y Work performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by the Lawrence Livermore National Laborato~under Contract W-740S-Eng-48.