Characterizing Laser-Ablated Surfaces with an AFM
Standing
Undergraduate
Type of Proposal
Oral Research Presentation
Challenges Theme
Open Challenge
Faculty Sponsor
N/A
Proposal
This project compares the beam quality of two types of lasers that are frequently used in experimental physics research labs: femtosecond and nanosecond lasers. By studying the surfaces ablated by these lasers, we will consequently determine the beam quality of our lasers. An AFM was used to characterize the surface of a metal sample after it had been ablated with the relevant laser. Qualities such as shape and symmetry of the cavity were considered. The shapes of the cavities were not symmetrical nor circular as anticipated. This means that the laser of interest was not providing the expected circular beam shape.
Grand Challenges
Viable, Healthy and Safe Communities
Characterizing Laser-Ablated Surfaces with an AFM
This project compares the beam quality of two types of lasers that are frequently used in experimental physics research labs: femtosecond and nanosecond lasers. By studying the surfaces ablated by these lasers, we will consequently determine the beam quality of our lasers. An AFM was used to characterize the surface of a metal sample after it had been ablated with the relevant laser. Qualities such as shape and symmetry of the cavity were considered. The shapes of the cavities were not symmetrical nor circular as anticipated. This means that the laser of interest was not providing the expected circular beam shape.