The yttrium oxide chemiluminescence from the 308 nm excimer laser ablation of YBa2Cu3O7-x, Y2O3, and YCl3

The yttrium oxide emission produced in the photoablation of Y2O3, YCl3, and YBa2Cu3O7−X in oxygen is investigated. Chemiluminescence from the B 2Σ-X2Σ and the A 2Π-X 2Σ YO electronic states, produced by the reaction Y+O2, is measured. The intensity of the A 2Π3/2 band is monitored as a function of pressure, distance from the target, and laser fluence. Hydrodynamic effects have a significant influence on the spatial and temporal evolution of the YO emission in the plume, which is governed by the dynamics of the shock wave generated in the excimer ablation. This shock wave compresses the ambient oxygen and leaves a trough of rarefied oxygen in its wake.