INVESTIGATION OF PLASMA PROPERTIES OF HIGH ENERGY GAS DISCHARGE LASERS.
Abstract
The report is directed toward determining the important plasma properties and collisional interactions governing the conversion of electrical energy to optical energy in high power CO2 electric discharge lasers. Toward this end, extensive analytic studies have been made which couple the effects of electron and molecule collision processes with plasma properties in a comprehensive model, resulting in identification and evaluation of those factors which determine CO2 electric discharge laser performance. In addition, precise measurements of plasma properties have been made in CO2 laser discharges and the experimental results correlated with those of the analytical portion of the program. The results of these studies provide improved insight and understanding of those factors which most influence laser operation, and suggest means whereby the performance of high energy laser systems can be improved. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 30, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0706773
Entities
People
- Michael C. Fowler
- Robert H. Bullis
- Walter J. Wiegand
- William L. Nighan
Organizations
- United Aircraft Corporation