Workshop on the physics and chemistry of solar-flux effects on condensed phase/gas interfaces

Notes transcribed from a workshop on effects of high intensity visible radiation (high solar flux) on materials are presented with comments by the workshop chairman and participants. Discussions presented include laser damage, photochemical effects, crystal defects, high temperature effects, and testing of materials in large solar concentrators. Contrasts are observed between highly concentrated solar radiation and equivalent power levels of coherent radiation from monochromatic lasers. The discussions suggest a lack of nonlinear or multiphoton optical effects to be expected from solar radiation even at the theoretical maximum of concentration (some 60,000 times normal sun light).