Abstract
[Truncated abstract] The development of gravitational-wave detectors has involved pushing the frontiers of
technology in many areas. One of these efforts, km-long optical cavities with high optical power, led to the realisation that 3-mode opto-acoustic interactions could occur in these systems [1, 2]. In researching this problem, Zhao et al. [3] recognised that the concepts could be utilised to make new ultra-sensitive opto-acoustic devices.
The thesis reports the development of acoustic resonators that would form the heart of a 3-mode opto-acoustic parametric amplifier (OAPA), and presents the design of such an amplifier and predictions of its performance.
Finite element modelling (FEM) is used to choose an appropriate design for an acoustic resonator to be incorporated in a novel OAPA device. Acoustic resonator prototypes range from single-paddle designs [3] to 3-paddle designs inspired by Davis et al. [4]. Predictions of optical coating losses are presented as a function of size and location of coatings on the 3-paddle resonator design. Four models are identified as showing the most promise.
Various resonator fabrication techniques and experimental setups to test resonators are discussed. Nodes and antinodes from the acoustic wave of a torsional mode (the mode of interest) in the frame are modelled with FEM to determine the optimal suspension locations of a 3-point contact setup.
technology in many areas. One of these efforts, km-long optical cavities with high optical power, led to the realisation that 3-mode opto-acoustic interactions could occur in these systems [1, 2]. In researching this problem, Zhao et al. [3] recognised that the concepts could be utilised to make new ultra-sensitive opto-acoustic devices.
The thesis reports the development of acoustic resonators that would form the heart of a 3-mode opto-acoustic parametric amplifier (OAPA), and presents the design of such an amplifier and predictions of its performance.
Finite element modelling (FEM) is used to choose an appropriate design for an acoustic resonator to be incorporated in a novel OAPA device. Acoustic resonator prototypes range from single-paddle designs [3] to 3-paddle designs inspired by Davis et al. [4]. Predictions of optical coating losses are presented as a function of size and location of coatings on the 3-paddle resonator design. Four models are identified as showing the most promise.
Various resonator fabrication techniques and experimental setups to test resonators are discussed. Nodes and antinodes from the acoustic wave of a torsional mode (the mode of interest) in the frame are modelled with FEM to determine the optimal suspension locations of a 3-point contact setup.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Doctor of Philosophy |
| Publication status | Unpublished - 2013 |