Properties of Composites
Although there are differences between composites, the following summary of properties applies to most representative combinations:
Mechanical and Thermal
- Flexural strength: Same as non-composite control samples
- Thermal shock resistance: Same as non-composite controls; no separation at interface during failure
- Can be finished and optically coated like conventional crystals
Optical Properties
- Transmitted wave front unchanged; may actually be improved in long rods by selective arrangement of individual components with respect to each other
- Negligible stress birefringence
Interface Properties
- Very high laser damage resistance
- Negligible scatter or absorptive loss
- Fresnel reflection corresponding to difference in refractive index of components