Short Pulse Electric CO2 Laser Research

A theoretical model was developed for the CO2 laser operating in a short pumping time, gain switched, mode-locked mode of operation. This model predicted the performance of a nanosecond E-beam ionizer-sustainer laser oscillator. Additional investigations showed the possibility of providing high energy nanosecond pulses from a CO2 laser MOPA chain and predicted output energies presently achievable with devices in existence and under construction. Modifications were designed and incorporated to an existing AERL E-beam ionizer-sustainer laser and demonstrated the capability of operating the device in a gain switched mode. Further investigations and experiments under other contracts and with internal funding are in process to achieve 0.1 - 1.0 joule pulses in one nanosecond as well as amplification experiments once this output is achieved.