RF-pumped infrared laser using transverse gas flow

A transverse-gas-flow configuration has been developed utilizing RF-discharge waveguide technology for several infrared lasers. Two potential applications have been identified: pulsed chemical laser and CW CO2 laser. In the 3.8-micron DF laser, the flowing-gas device provides rapid gas replenishment to maintain high electrical efficiency at high repetition rates. An average power of 0.6 W was achieved at 1 kHz. An order-of-magnitude power improvement can potentially be developed in a closed-cycle system. In the CW CO2 laser, the flowing gas provides efficient cooling so that high output power per unit gain length can be achieved. A 16-W output in a 20-cm-gain-length device, corresponding to a record 0.8-W/cm output has been demonstrated. This system can be developed into a 20-60-W laser with a 20-50-cm gain length.