IR radiation and lasers

[liamp47]

I have bought some cheap laser goggles from ebay. Apparently they don't block out the IR radiation. Can you please explain to me what IR radiation is and whether it would be safe to use these goggles with a 75mw green.

 

[RA_pierce]

There is relevant information stickied in the Green Lasers section.

IR is InfraRed. Because of the technology required to create green laser light, IR light is also emitted from a green laser. This IR emission is typically only a few percent of the total light output or 15-30mW. Some lasers have an IR filter installed which blocks the IR light from escaping.

In the case of your 75mW green laser, I would be more concerned about exposure to the green light than the IR light.
Read up some relevant threads in the green lasers section for more information.

 

[anselm]

IR means infrared. Your eyes cannot pick it up, you cannot see it, yet it is there
and it can be powerful enough to damage your eyes just like visible spectrum laser light.

That being said, unless you are planning to shine your green laser at your face because
"the goggles will protect you", (which would be a bad idea no matter what), I wouldn't
worry too much about the IR. It is basically in the same beam the green would be,
only slighty less focussed, a bit more diffuse.

So, summarizing, IR can be a problem if you take a direct hit to the face when wearing
goggles and thinking you are safe.

 

[liamp47]

Ok thanks. Will the goggles protect from a direct reflection, like off a mirror or a window?

 

[alf638]

From the green yes, (if they are of decent quality).
The IR would get through but would PROBABLY (I make no guarantees), be of safe levels. But still don't do it.