OPTICAL STRENGTH OF ION-EXCHANGE TREATED GLASS

The replacement of Na+ by K+ in an optical glass surface leads to vari ation of the surface layer plasticity and produces a compressional str ess in the surface. The influence of these parameters on the optical s trength, i. e. resistance to laser radiation at a wavelength 1.06 mu m , and the character of the laser induced damage to ion exchanged glass were studied. Compression causes the increase of laser breakdown 'thr eshold' and a decrease of the extent of damage.