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Acoustic waves in transversely excited atmospheric CO2 laser discharges: effect on performance and reduction techniques.

Authors :
Hubertus M. von Bergmann
Andrew Forbes
Ted Roberts
Lourens R. Botha
Source :
Optical Engineering. Aug2008, Vol. 47 Issue 8, p84202-84202. 1p.
Publication Year :
2008

Abstract

Results are presented on the influence of acoustic waves on the performance of high-repetition-rate TEA CO2 lasers. It is shown that acoustic waves generated inside the laser cavity lead to nonuniform discharges, resulting in a deterioration of the laser beam quality, decreased output energy, and an increase in pulse-to-pulse energy variation. The effect of the gas mix on the acoustic behavior is investigated, and experimental results on laser performance across a range of gas mixtures are presented. Methods to reduce the effects of acoustic waves are presented together with experimental results. The influence of acoustic damping measures on laser gain are demonstrated, showing a significant improvement in gain and output power at high pulse repetition rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00913286
Volume :
47
Issue :
8
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Optical Engineering
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
34143396