Dynamic spatial polarization control of high energy NIR lasers with an optically addressable liquid crystal device for fast and efficient area printing of metals

The intrinsic electro-optic properties of liquid crystals (LCs) make them highly desirable for use in dynamic spatial light modulators (SLMs). Seurat leverages these properties in conjunction with photoconductive materials in order to spatially control the polarization state of high energy NIR lasers for area 3D printing of metals with high resolution. The intense environment that the device operates in leads to additional challenges beyond those of typical LC devices. Rational material selection and device design are highly critical when considering the various types of light matter interactions and their effect on efficiency, contrast, speed, and power handling. We will address the electro-optic properties and operational mechanism of Seurat’s devices and the limitations of using Bi12SiO20 (BSO) coupled with a twisted nematic liquid crystal as the power of the lasers increases beyond the kW level.