Experimental investigation of an optically pumped mid-infraredcarbon monoxide laser

摘要

Results from a dual experimental/theoretical investigation of annoptically pumped room-temperature carbon monoxide (CO) laser arendiscussed. Ro-vibrational transitions in the (2, 0) overtone of CO atn2.3 Μm were pumped with an optical parametric oscillator to generatenlasing on (2, 1) band transitions near 4.7 Μm. During the build-up ofnthe laser pulse, only rotational redistribution of the initial opticallynpumped population was observed in the resolved CO spectra. Calculationsndescribing the CO laser pulse dynamics and collisional relaxation ratesnsupport this observation. The addition of helium and argon bath gasesnenhanced the rotational relaxation process. A pressure dependent lossnmechanism that degrades optical efficiency has been identified andnpossible causes are discussed