Extension of TEA CO2laser capabilities

Results obtained to date with TEA CO
2
lasers in both single-pulse and high-repetition-rate operation are described. The special cathode arrangement for triggered discharge permits output energy of more than 18 J/1 of excited volume, with overall efficiency of 17 percent without arcing. Preliminary results obtained with a gas recirculating loop are 100 pulses/s at a 20-J/pulse level.