A Waxicon Mirror-Electrode for Laser Initiated Discharge Channels.

摘要

A reflecting waxicon (compound axicon) has been demonstrated to generate a smooth CO2 laser-induced breakdown plasma in atmospheric pressure air. The protruding central cone of the waxicon also functions as an electrode for 30 kV laser initiated discharges. The waxicon mirror-electrode has several advantages over conventional focusing systems for laser initiated discharges in unfiltered air: (1) Smoother laser induced breakdown plasma, (2) Concentration of laser energy deposition in the plasma near the tip electrode, (3) More compact laser initiated discharge experiments since long focal length lenses or mirrors are not required, and (4) A self contained focusing system - electrode for laser triggered switches.