A data review and performance analysis of repetitively pulsed DF and DF-CO2 lasers

Results are presented from a theoretical study of the performance potential of deuterium fluoride (DF) and DF-CO2 lasers using solid gas generators as a fuel supply and a chemical pump to absorb laser effluents and maintain a low laser cavity pressure. The data base on DF and DF-CO2 lasers is reviewed, including existing performance models. The volumetric efficiency and molar efficiency are selected as figures of merit. More than 30 different variations of gas compositions and pressure regimes were examined to identify the highest efficiencies. A CO2/F2 ratio of unity offered the largest payoff potential. An NF3 mixture showed good promise if power losses at 10.6 microns could be avoided. The lack of performance falloff in molar efficiency with increasing cavity pressure suggests performance gains can be had using systems at higher-than-atmospheric pressures.