David Lathrop Morse

Photolytic technique for producing microlenses in photosensitive glass

A process is described whereby 2-D arrays of small diameter spherical lenses are produced in a homogeneous photosensitive glass by a photothermal technique. The mechanism of the lens formation is explained on the basis of the density change of the photonucleated microcrystalline phase developed relative to the unexposed glass. The lens formation is related to such variables as optical exposure, thermal schedule, glass thickness, and lens diameter. Optical characterization of the lenses produced by this technique was carried out by interferometric and MTF measurements. One-to-one conjugate erect imaging lens arrays were fabricated and tested.

Magnetic properties of iron oxide photolytically produced from Fe(CO)5 impregnated porous glass

This article discusses the magnetic properties observed in porous glasses impregnated with metal carbonyls after exposure to light. In the photolyzed and consolidated glasses both superparamagnetic and single domain ferrimagnetic particles were found to be present, with the single domain particles having an exceedingly high coercive force. The concentration ratio between superparamagnetic and single domain particles depends strongly on temperature. An analysis of the observed phenomena is given.

Microlens arrays produced by a photolytic technique

Spherical microlens arrays are produced directly from glass by a photothermal process. The method, performance of lenses, and applications are discussed.

Photolithographic processing of integrated optic devices in glasses

The ability to produce changes in the refractive index of a glass of the order of 0.01 to 0.001 allows a laser beam to be guided through glass. However, to perform the functions required for passive elements demands the formation of highly resolved gradient index patterns. Porous glass impregnated with photosensitive organometallic compounds exhibits optical changes when exposed to light. Changes in transmission and refractive index can be induced and are permanent after consolidation of the glass. Photolithographic techniques for making channel waveguides of the order of 1-10 mm, and more complex optical circuits composed of active and passive components have been developed.