Neodymium Aprotic Liquid Laser
Abstract
The report describes the results of a research and development program directed at achieving high average power operation from a transverse flow Nd:POCl3;ZrCl4 liquid laser. Theoretical calculation of expected performance predicted over 50 joules long pulse output at greater than 3 percent efficiency. Transverse flow was expected to allow operation at 10 Hz and higher. A flowing system was designed using materials compatible with the corrosive liquid. Many problems were encountered in getting a leak-free assembly with these limited materials. The flowing system was filled, outgassed and operated. Problems of scattering in the liquid, corrosion of critical laser components by the corrosive POCl3 vapor and breakage severely limited the results obtained. Q- switched operation at 4 to 8 MW peak power and 45 nsec pulse width was obtained. Single shot, 300 microsec width pulsed output energies of 12 joules were obtained at around 0.37 percent efficiency. Threshold was just obtained at 10 Hz.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0885919
Entities
People
- Jack D. Foster
- Russell F. Kirk
Organizations
- Sylvania Electric Products