Investigation of Plasma Processes in Electronic Transition Lasers.
Abstract
This paper presents the results of an analysis of plasma properties in an electron-beam controlled KrF* laser discharge. In this study special emphasis is placed on establishing the relationship among the numerous kinetic processes influencing the populations of excited specimens in the laser medium. Important reactions controlling the coupled populations of rare-gas metastable states and higher excited states are discussed in detail, along with the resultant effect of these reactions of KrF* formation efficiency. It is shown that the rare-gas monohalide production efficiency is approximately 20 percent under typical conditions, and that no single reaction dominates either production or loss of KrF*. In addition, the very important role of halogen molecule dissociation is treated and the resultant effects of dissociation on the temporal variations of plasma properties and on plasma stability are analyzed. Reprints of related publications are included in the Appendix to this report. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA055792
Entities
People
- William L. Nighan
Organizations
- United Technologies Corporation