High-Energy Short-Pulse CO2 Lasers

This chapter reviews that the processes by which a population inversion can be created in a CO₂-containing mixture of high-pressure gases and how this stored energy can be efficiently extracted in a coherent photon beam. It describes specific pumping systems based on both electron-beam-controlled discharges and self-sustained discharges and experimental measurements for both self-sustained discharge lasers and electron-beam-controlled lasers. The chapter discusses the more practical requirements for constructing a short-pulse, high-brightness CO₂ laser system. It also reviews methods of generating controlled pulses of CO₂ radiation and also describes techniques of achieving retropulse and parasitic isolation in high-gain amplifier chains and damage limitations for optical components. The Antares power amplifier consists of 12 discharge channels packaged in an annulus around a common electron gun. The device is also equipped with catalytic converters and heater exchangers to ensure reliable operation for extended periods of time.