Numerical investigation of the possible use of stimulated Brillouin scattering in laser fusion facilities

Results are presented of calculations of the energy and temporal characteristics of a transient Stokes stimulated Brillouin scattering (STBS) pulse under saturation conditions. It is found that by using an STBS mirror operated in the transient regime, it is possible to improve the pulse contrast ratio, sharpen the leading edge, and shorten the pulse duration. Calculations are made of the propagation of a Stokes pulse through the amplifier stages of an iodine photodissociation laser. Its energy and temporal characteristics are determined. It is found that high-power subnanosecond pulses may be obtained from an input pulse of several nanoseconds duration by cutting its leading edge with an STBS mirror and then sharpening it during the amplification process. Calculations are also made of the propagation of a Stokes pulse wth a steep leading edge through a passive switch.