Simple technique for sequential q-switching of molecular lasers

Area of Science:

• Laser Physics
• Molecular Spectroscopy
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• Conventional Q-switching methods for molecular lasers can be complex.
• Multi-wavelength laser sources are valuable for various scientific investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a simple technique for sequential Q-switching of molecular lasers using an optical scanner.
• To demonstrate the capability of this method for multi-wavelength laser generation and its applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing an optical scanner as a folding element within a laser cavity.
• The cavity comprises a stationary diffraction grating and a partially reflecting mirror.
• Sequential Q-switching demonstrated on a carbon dioxide (CO(2)) laser.

Main Results:

• Observed over sixty-two transitions for a CO(2) laser between 9.2 and 10.8 micrometers.
• Achieved rapid repetition rates of 200 Hz and narrow laser pulses (<5 microseconds).
• Demonstrated selective absorption measurements of CO(2) laser wavelengths by ethylene (C(2)H(4)).

Conclusions:

• The developed technique offers a versatile multi-wavelength laser source suitable for laser propagation studies, absorption spectroscopy, and gain measurements.
• This method is adaptable for sequential Q-switching of other molecular lasers like carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen fluoride (HF).
• The rapid repetition rates and narrow pulses enable the use of conventional signal processing techniques.