Abstract

One of the most attractive approaches for a viable short-wavelength chemical laser is a two-step approach coupling broadband ultraviolet light generated by chemical means with molecular photodissociation to produce population inversions of electronically excited atoms. To evaluate this idea, experimental data on the photodissociation of suitable molecular precursors are necessary. In particular, the cross sections for production of both the upper and lower states of the lasing species as a function of photolysis wavelength are necessary. Kinetic information on the quenching rates of the important excited states and the chemical recombination/regeneration rates are also important. We report here on our preliminary studies of such systems at short ultraviolet wavelengths with particular emphasis on the photodissociation of metal halides at moderate temperatures. The most attractive lasing candidates appear to be atoms with energy levels such that lasing can occur to a low-lying energy level which is not thermally populated to any great extent and which can readily be collisionaily quenched. Atoms which fulfill this requirement include indium, thallium, and lead.

© 1986 Optical Society of America