Optical Dielectric Strength of Alkali‐Halide Crystals Obtained by Laser‐Induced Breakdown

CO2 laser‐induced breakdown was studied in ten of the alkali halides. The bulk intrinsic breakdown thresholds are intimately related to the corresponding dc dielectric strengths. It is therefore concluded that the same mechanism is operative in both types of experiment. A method is proposed for designing more damage‐resistant materials. In addition, the question of inclusions is dealt with.