Electric-Pulse-Initiated Chemical Laser.
Abstract
This study deals with a high-repetition-rate multispectral laser source providing simultaneous emission on many lines in the 2.5-3.0 micron, 3.5-4.0 micron, and 4.3-5.0 micron regions. This program was an experimental investigation to assess the operational characteristics of compact, high-repetition-rate mid-infrared laser sources capable of multispectral operation. An HF/DF/HBr, electrically-initiated TE chemical laser was originally selected as a good candidate for such a system. HBr was found not to be a suitable laser medium for a small system, owing to its low gain. An HF-laser-pumped, isotopic CO2 laser was selected to replace it and to cover the 4.3-5.0 micron region. This laser was investigated in an extension of the original contract. The HF/DF chemical laser was capable of sustaining up to 10,000 discharges per second in gas mixtures containing SF6 and, separately or jointly, H2 and D2. Over 1 millijoule per pulse outputs were obtained up to 4,200 pps in HF, weaker outputs being still available even at the 10,000 pps repetition rate. Peak average powers were 4.5 W for HF and 2.0 W for DF lasers. The laser was operated in a recirculating mode to make efficient use of the reactant gases. Chemical scrubbers were used to remove the discharge and reaction products, thus improving laser performance. Atmospheric pressure operation of this system was also achieved.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADB058406
Entities
People
- D. P. Bua
- R. I. Rudko
- S. J. Linhares
- Z. Drozdowicz
Organizations
- RTX