ALEX4SPACE – Alexandrite Crystal for Space Applications

Main objective of the operation: Business innovation

DESCRIPTION The Alex4Space project developed high-quality alexandrite crystals with advanced optical coatings for space laser applications, achieving Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6. The initiative created a complete and independent European supply chain for the production of space-qualified alexandrite laser crystals, eliminating dependence on non-European suppliers.

Purpose: To develop and qualify highly-doped alexandrite crystals with functional coatings for laser systems intended for Earth observation missions from space, such as atmospheric LIDAR. The objective was to increase the technology readiness level (TRL) of European crystals from TRL 4 to TRL 6 through rigorous environmental testing.

Expected results: Optimization of crystal growth processes to achieve doping concentrations above 0.22 at% Cr; development of optical coatings with high laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT >15 J/cm²); demonstration of laser performance in representative configurations; environmental qualification through thermal cycling and irradiation.

Results achieved: Production of crystals with doping up to 0.262 at% Cr; development of AR and HR+HT coatings with LIDT up to 28 J/cm² in raster scan mode; laser demonstration with 2.8 ns pulses and energy of 514 μJ at 5 kHz (system 2) and 98 ns pulses with energy of 3 mJ at 100 Hz (system 1); successful completion of TRL 6 environmental tests without significant degradation; performance superior to or comparable with international competitors.

PROJECT CODE: Ricerca_1C-115 Cod.118-17 

PROJECT TITLE: Alex4Space 

CUP: G18C18000010006 

PERIOD: 18/09/2017 – 30/06/2020 

TOTAL PROJECT AMOUNT: 505.230,30 

FUNDED AMOUNT: 242.505,07 

SOURCE: POR FESR Sardinia 2014-2020 – Priority Axis I – Scientific research, technological development and innovation

BENEFICIARY: Filar-Optomaterials Srl,

For further information: www.sardegnaprogrammazione.it

Project co-financed by the European Union – European Regional Development Fun