Unwanted X-ray emission in ultrashort pulse laser processing: from metallic to biological materials

Ultrashort laser pulses have become established in many industrial processes. Additionally, they are also an integral part of medical applications especially in ophthalmology and to some extent in dentistry. The availability of highly repetitive powerful laser sources and advanced laser beam control systems have favored these developments. However, the laser processing may be accompanied by the generation of unwanted X-rays. Small doses per laser pulse can accumulate to significant dose levels at high laser pulse repetition rates. Moreover, burst mode processing increases the X-ray dose rates compared to single pulse use and results in X-ray photon energies up to 40 keV for tungsten targets. For laser treatment of human teeth, clearly noticeable X-ray skin dose rates can be found. The paper summarizes the current state of the art in the field of undesired generation of X-ray radiation during ultrashort pulse laser processing in air.

VIVO