Stability of Ionized Molecular Gas Flows.

Abstract

A theoretical investigation of the factors influencing the stability of molecular gas discharges typical of those utilized in high power laser systems has been carried out. These studies have revealed the mechanisms by which basic electronic, ionic, and neutral collision processes effect discharge plasma stability. The details of the electron-molecule attachment process, the characteristics of the resulting negative ion, and the nature of the negative ion detachment mechanism have been found to be particularly important. In addition, it has been shown that conditions typically encountered in molecular laser discharges are compatible with the occurrence of both ionization instability. The report summarises in tutorial fashion the key findings of the research completed to date, and identifies areas of importance which will receive emphasis in forthcoming investigations. (Author Modified Abstract)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 14, 1973
Accession Number
AD0757083

Entities

People

  • Robert H. Bullis
  • W. L. Nighan
  • Walter J. Wiegand

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Attachment
  • Collisions
  • Electrons
  • Flow
  • Gas Discharges
  • Gas Flow
  • Instability
  • Ionization
  • Lasers
  • Molecular Lasers
  • Molecules

Readers

  • Molecular Photonics/Laser Physics
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Microelectronics