DON26BZ01-NV038 — High-power, Long Coherence Length Blue Laser

Award Maximum: $140,000 (Base) / $100,000 (Option) Period of Performance: 6 months (Base) + 6 months (Option) Phase Type: Phase I

OBJECTIVE: Develop a blue wavelength, high-power laser with a long coherence length capable of high pulse repetition frequencies.

DESCRIPTION: In recent years, blue laser diode technology has enabled improved data storage, enhanced fluorescence imaging, metal processing, and other applications. Lasers in this wavelength band also fall within the 'optical window' of water and will experience less attenuation than other wavelength bands. The wavelength band will also experience less diffraction compared to other communication wavelengths. This SBIR topic seeks to develop a blue laser capable of high pulse repetition rates and long coherence length light while maintaining a high optical power.

Target specifications for the desired product include: High optical power output: 10 W continuous wave; Optical wavelength: 425 nm to 475 nm; Long coherence length: > 10 m; High pulse repetition frequency: > 100 MHz; Laser will need to operate continuously and reliably for lifetime of 2000 days.

PHASE I: Perform a design and materials study to assess the feasibility of the proposed technology or process to meet the target specifications listed above. A final report must include an assessment of: Preliminary design and simulation of laser technology; The size, weight, and power (SWaP) implications of the proposed technology; Pathway to meet the lifetime target specification including accelerated life testing; The scalability of the approach for low quantity prototypes, low-rate production, and full rate production. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build laser prototype in Phase II.

PHASE II: Build and demonstrate the laser technology and characterize its performance against the target goals of optical power, wavelength, coherence length, pulse repetition frequency, beam quality, and continuously and reliable laser lifetime. Deliver five (5) representative lasers to the Navy at the conclusion of Phase II that can be further tested.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Based on the prototypes developed in Phase II, continue development to assist the Government in integrating the technology with relevant technologies. Beyond Navy applications, the proposed laser technology will be relevant for a range of commercial and scientific applications including holography, spectroscopy, and medical sciences.

KEYWORDS: Diode laser; blue laser; fiber amplifier; pulsed laser; high power laser; coherence length