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Optical Limiters: Spatial, Temporal, and Bio-Optical Effects

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Abstract

This paper examines the goals which a nonlinear limiter must achieve in order to protect an eye against injury by a pulsed laser. The shape and temporal structure of the image presented to the retina are discussed. New bio-optical data describing retinal injury thresholds for largeimage sources are used to estimate the ocular hazard. The issues and trade-offs surrounding the incorporation of a limiter into an optical system are examined, and the suitability of different materials for an effective low-loss limiter are compared.

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Correspondence to R. C. Hollins.

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Hollins, R.C., McEwan, K.J., Till, S.J. et al. Optical Limiters: Spatial, Temporal, and Bio-Optical Effects. MRS Online Proceedings Library 597, 447–457 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1557/PROC-597-447

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1557/PROC-597-447

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