The 248 nm - new short wavelength for pumping lasers employing vapors of complex molecules

Lasing at lambda-248 nm is achieved in an excimer laser by increasing the stability of the excited molecules by using an outside gas and a compound in which the quantum yield changes little as the stored vibrational energy increases. Pentane was used in the first case, and perylene in the second. The fluorescence spectra of pure vapors of POPOP and perylene are presented. Different classes of organic compounds with which lasing at lambda=248 nm is achieved are presented. The lasing with vapors of organic compounds excited by high energy light quanta indicates the possibility of lasing with complex molecules in the short wave ultraviolet region of the spectrum, as well as the efficiency of transforming the powerful radiation from excimer lasers to the near ultraviolet and visible portion of the spectrum.