Optical attenuation: photochromic or photodarkening materials for UV

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the search for photochromic or photodarkening materials that can be applied to optical glass to achieve irreversible attenuation of up to 20dB at a wavelength of 1310nm after exposure to UV light. The focus is on materials that maintain this attenuation even after the UV light is removed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the possibility of achieving significant attenuation without any prior attenuation.
  • Another suggests that photographic emulsions, used in camera film, might be a relevant direction, especially if a post-exposure wash is acceptable.
  • A participant mentions the potential for materials that are physically damaged by heavy UV exposure, noting that many such materials may disintegrate upon exposure.
  • There is a reiteration of the need for minimal or no attenuation before the UV exposure.
  • Questions are raised about the sensitivity range desired, with a caution that UV light can degrade many materials over time.
  • It is noted that glass is generally opaque to UV light, and clarification is provided that 1310nm is in the infrared spectrum.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of achieving the desired attenuation characteristics, with some suggesting specific materials and approaches while others raise concerns about the limitations and degradation of materials under UV exposure. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the dependence on specific definitions of attenuation and sensitivity, as well as the potential limitations of materials under UV exposure. There are unresolved questions about the exact requirements for the materials in terms of prior attenuation and durability.

Photon70
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Are there photochromic or photodarkening material that could be deposited on the surface of optical glass to irreversibly provide up to 20dB of attenuation at 1310nm once irradiated by UV light? The attenuation is to stay after the UV excitation is removed.
 
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But with no attenuation beforehand?
 
Sounds like you are after a Photographic Emulsion as used on camera film.
If you don't mind a post-exposure wash thru developer, that could be direction to look.

A Google search
(https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=uv+photographics )

found: https://uvphotographics.com/

Kodak, the camera and film company, makes a variety of chemicals used in the photo-lithography of Integrated Circuit (IC) manufacturing.

If a post-exposure wash is not available, there are many materials that are physically damaged by heavy UV exposure, which could be another search area; although many of them tend to disintegrate from exposure. (Sorry, I don't recall any details of these.)

Cheers,
Tom
 
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Thank you great suggestions!
 
berkeman said:
But with no attenuation beforehand?
Or minimal attenuation before
 
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Additionally, glass is pretty opaque to UV to begin with. And 1310 nm is in the infrared,
 

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