Intracavity polarization modulation of a nearly isotropic CO2laser

A simple intracavity polarization-modulation technique is described that shows promise of producing nearly 100 percent amplitude modulation of laser output through the use of a relatively low-voltage electrooptic birefringent modulator. Some preliminary performance data are presented that support the general feasibility of the technique and indicate the direction that should be taken toward its further development. Although the technique is generally applicable to any CW laser system, it would appear to be particularly useful with the CO
2
laser since good electrooptic modulators are not available for that laser.