First-principles study of oxygen-silicon ratio on fused silica performance under ultraviolet laser irradiation

Fused silica components are extensively employed in laser-driven inertial confinement fusion systems, yet their performance degradation under intense laser irradiation remains a critical challenge. This study investigates the oxygen-to-silicon (O/Si) ratios effects induced by UV laser irradiation on fused silica through first-principles calculations. Systematic analyses of electronic, optical, and mechanical properties reveal the fundamental mechanism of laser-induced damage of fused silica at 355 nm wavelength. These theoretical findings establish structure-property relationships between O/Si ratios and multi-physical performance, providing crucial guidance for optimizing radiation-resistant fused silica through defect engineering to achieve enhanced laser-induced damage thresholds.