Precision Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Post-Processing of Optical Glass

This chapter describes various manufacturing technologies for precision optics that are assembled in high-power laser systems. Grinding techniques, including loose and fixed abrasive grinding, are first introduced in accordance with manufacturing flow-line of optics. At grinding stage, optics are shaped to the desired dimensions and surface forms. In the second step, polishing, smoothens surface roughness to <1. nm and eliminates subsurface damage left by grinding. Loose and bound abrasive polishing as well as nontraditional sophisticated polishing techniques using energy fields and particle beams have been detailed. Lastly, post-processing techniques will get rid of contaminants by polishing process and meanwhile maintain, at least will not degrade seriously, surface form and surface roughness. Both wet and dry post-processing show considerable potential for enhancing damage resistance of optical components. By means of aforementioned procedures, it is very likely to manufacture optics meeting the stringent requirements of high-power laser systems.