New efficient CW far-infrared optically pumped CH2F2laser

Far-infrared laser action is reported for the first time from the optically pumped CH
2
F
2
molecule. Lasing on twelve FIR transitions was produced by pumping with six emission lines in the
R
branch of the 9.6 μm band of the CW CO
2
laser. High conversion efficiencies of up to 20 percent of the quantum limit have been obtained with the stronger FIR laser lines.