Glass/UV laser surface interactions

The optical properties of bulk glass, both linear and nonlinear, are the primary focus of researchers when predicting, proposing and implementing novel laser processed photonic devices. However, the "surface" absorption of laser radiation can be a significant component of the energy deposition, depending on the glass preparation. Defect absorption centres are also a variable in glasses manufactured by different suppliers, or in different batches. Introducing particles to the surface is one way of simulating absorption centres/defects on the surface. Studies of surface glass chemistry as modified by pulsed UV laser irradiation and UV pulsed laser/ particle-on-glass surface interactions are described. Much of this research was conducted in the context of developing successful techniques for laser cleaning of glass but is relevant to micro-and nano-optics and photonics more generally.