Abstract

Highly efficient frequency conversion of Nd:glass laser radiation to its third harmonic and the improved target absorption anticipated at 0.351 μm should increase the probability for a demonstration of scientific breakeven in inertial confinement fusion experiments during the 1980s. Eighty percent overall (1.053-0.351-μm) energy conversion efficiencies recently reported by Seka et al.¹ cannot be realized in practice, however, until suitably transmissive and damage resistant solids, liquids, and thin film dielectric coatings are identified and/or developed.

© 1981 Optical Society of America