Abstract

Optical fibers, which transmit visible light, have made it possible to guide a beam of light to a designated target with ease and efficiency, in particular, light from laser sources. The development of the CO₂ laser has provided a powerful and efficient source of ir light. Thus the need has arisen for ir waveguides that can increase the effectiveness of the CO₂ laser as a light and energy source. We have fabricated waveguides for ir light that allow nearly the same ease of transporting and steering ir energy as do optical fibers. One direct application for which the CO₂ laser is especially suited is the use of its high power as a cutting and welding tool as well as for surgery. Since ir beam guidance is presently accomplished with complex and awkward articulatedarm optical systems, the device we report on offers great simplification and the potential for significantly reduced system costs.

© 1976 Optical Society of America