Hydroxide-catalysis bonding for stable optical systems for space

Elliffe, E.T., Bogenstahl, J., Deshpande, A., Hough, J., Killow, C., Reid, S., Robertson, D. , Rowan, S., Ward, H. and Cagnoli, G. (2005) Hydroxide-catalysis bonding for stable optical systems for space. Classical and Quantum Gravity, 22(10), S257-S267. (doi: 10.1088/0264-9381/22/10/018)

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Abstract

Space-based optical systems must be made from lightweight materials which can withstand significant acceleration and temperature changes. Materials such as ZERODUR®, ULE® (Ultra Low Expansion material) and silica are all potentially suitable. Depending on the specific requirements of the optical system and the transmissive or reflective nature of the optical layout these materials can be used by themselves or together to fabricate optical benches. The geometrical layouts of these optical systems are often very complicated and the requirements for mechanical stability very stringent, thus jointing components presents a challenge. In this paper we present developments of a novel chemical bonding process, originally invented at Stanford University for bonding silica components for the optical telescope for the Gravity Probe B mission. Colloquially called silicate bonding, this process utilizes hydroxide catalysis to join optical components to optical mounts to obtain high stability whilst accommodating the requirement for precise alignment procedures.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Cagnoli, Dr Gianpietro and Rowan, Professor Sheila and Killow, Dr Christian and Hough, Professor James and Ward, Professor Henry and Robertson, Dr David and Reid, Professor Stuart
Authors: Elliffe, E.T., Bogenstahl, J., Deshpande, A., Hough, J., Killow, C., Reid, S., Robertson, D., Rowan, S., Ward, H., and Cagnoli, G.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Research Centre:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy > Institute for Gravitational Research
Journal Name:Classical and Quantum Gravity
Publisher:Institute of Physics
ISSN:0264-9381
ISSN (Online):1361-6382

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