Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)
Department
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Committee Chair
Aubrey Beal
Committee Member
Adam Panagos
Committee Member
Laurie Joiner
Research Advisor
Aubrey Beal
Subject(s)
Laser beams--Scattering, Brillouin scattering, Phase modulation
Abstract
Stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) poses a significant challenge in the development of high-power, single-mode continuous-wave fiber lasers. SBS occurs when the laser intensity is sufficient to generate acoustic vibrations in the fiber, leading to the reflection of light and limiting the maximum achievable power. Spectral broadening of the laser linewidth is a common SBS suppression technique. This thesis presents a novel approach using sine waves phase-modulated by chaotically generated noise to achieve improved SBS suppression. Experimental results demonstrate that this method achieves flatter and broader optical linewidths compared to traditional white noise modulation, even at lower power levels. This approach was successfully tested on a kilowatt-class fiber laser, and its simplicity and ability to be engineered enable unprecedented levels of spectral broadening.
Recommended Citation
Helton, Zachary, "Enhanced suppression of stimulated Brillouin Scattering in high energy fiber lasers through novel chaotic phase modulation" (2024). Theses. 713.
https://louis.uah.edu/uah-theses/713
Defense presentation