Abstract
Utilization of polarizing optics for dynamic attenuation of intense unpolarized laser beams is reported. The new family of variable attenuator is composed of a retardation plate mounted between two identical polarization splitters placed in tandem. By varying the retardation, or by rotating the plate, the transmission is varied. These attenuators are characterized by a high transmission and a high optical damage threshold. A transmission dynamic range as large as 1 to 10−5 is achievable with polarization splitters made of crystals such as sapphire. These attenuators are applicable in laser material processing and in Q switching of unpolarized lasers.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 690-692 |
| Number of pages | 3 |
| Journal | Optics Letters |
| Volume | 16 |
| Issue number | 9 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 1 May 1991 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics