Mechanism modeling and analysis of optical component damage induced by high-energy high-order Hermite–Gaussian laser beams

In the realm of high-energy laser systems, the Hermite–Gaussian mode represents a prevalent emission pattern. This study focuses on the spatial distribution characteristics of the Hermite–Gaussian pulsed-laser field and its impact on the laser beam-induced damage threshold (LIDT) of quartz glass. A thermal analysis model is established based on the thermodynamic principles governing optical materials, simulating the temperature rise and temperature field distribution within quartz glass under intense pulsed-laser irradiation. Through experimental measurements and comparisons with simulation results, this study explores the thermal damage mechanisms and LIDT of quartz glass subjected to Hermite–Gaussian pulsed lasers. The results indicate that, as the transverse-mode index of the Hermite–Gaussian pulsed laser increased, the energy required to reach the melting point of quartz glass decreased, leading to a corresponding reduction in the damage threshold.