Measurement of the Intensity of a Vacuum Ultraviolet Source for Application to Photo-Ionization in TEA Lasers.
Abstract
Other investigators have demonstrated improved stability and power output in TEA lasers by supplying high background electron densities prior to application of the primary discharge. This background ionization has been achieved in experimental lasers with electron beam techniques or spark discharges. Another approach to supplying the background electron density is the use of the Lyman-alpha line of hydrogen to photoionize nitric oxide which may exist naturally in small quantities in the carbon dioxide laser. Photo intensity measurements for a Hinteregger-type capillary discharge lamp are made with a Samson-type double ionization chamber and values greater than 10 to the 14th power photon/steradian-second are obtained. A photon flux of this magnitude can produce 10 to the 8th power electrons/cc at a depth of 30 cm in a one atmosphere carbon dioxide laser with a CO2:N2:He mixture of 1:2:3.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA009209
Entities
People
- Arthur B. Lewis Jr
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology