laserdämpning

Laserdämpning, often translated as laser attenuation, refers to the reduction of the intensity of a laser beam. This can be achieved through various methods, primarily by absorbing, scattering, or reflecting a portion of the light. Attenuation is a crucial process in many applications where the full power of a laser is not required or could be harmful.

Common methods for laser attenuation include the use of optical filters. Neutral density filters are a prime example, designed to reduce light intensity equally across a broad spectrum of wavelengths. These filters can be made from absorbing materials, which convert light energy into heat, or from dielectric coatings that reflect a portion of the incident light. Other techniques involve using beam splitters, which divide the laser beam into two or more lower-intensity beams, or by adjusting the distance from the beam's source, as light intensity decreases with the square of the distance in free space.

The degree of attenuation is quantifiable and is typically expressed as a ratio or in decibels. Understanding and controlling laser attenuation is vital for safety, ensuring that laser exposure remains within permissible limits for both personnel and sensitive equipment. It also plays a significant role in scientific experiments and industrial processes where precise control over light intensity is necessary for accurate measurements or specific material interactions.