E-beam HCl laser

The feasibility of producing stimulated emission in the 3 to 5 micrometer wavelength band by direct electron impact excitation of hydrogen chloride vibrational levels is being investigated theoretically and experimentally. Theoretical analysis predicts an optical gain coefficient in excess of 0.4%/cm. The importance of high electron density and low initial gas temperature is predicted. The results of electric discharge/laser experiments are described. Experiments have been conducted in 5% HCl/95% Argon mixtures at p=10 torr in the e-beam sustained discharge. These conditions were insufficient to demonstrate stimulated emission. (Modified author abstract)