Final Report the Physics of High Efficiency Argon Fluoride Lasers
Abstract
The primary objective of the research conducted is to study the physics of an electron beam pumped argon fluoride (ArF) laser. Generating sufficient laser energy from excimer laser gas medium for potential inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and directed energy applications will require large laser cavities that will need to be pumped by electron beams, rather than by electrical discharges. ArF has a shorter wavelength (193 nm) and higher photon energy than KrF and could enable unique applications. NRL enhanced world leading technology in electron beam pumped high energy excimer lasers with the development of short ArF ultraviolet wavelength which continues to show prospective benefits to research in inertial fusion, mitigating laser plasma instabilities, and as a diagnostic tool. The high quality science discovered in this effort has enabled technology development for the most energetic argon fluoride laser at 200 J with near prospects of generating significant more yield. The physics of greatest consequence include measurements of the small signal gain and saturation intensity with accompanying ArF laser kinetics over a significant pressure and composition range. These and other findings from this program have been documented work in 27 various publications/communications of record including five refereed journal articles, one patent publication/application and two memorandum reports.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 24, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1194495
Entities
People
- Matthew C. Myers
- Matthew F Wolford
- Tzvetelina Petrova
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory