Multifactor optimization of a carbon dioxide gasdynamic laser. I. Gain optimization

The variational problem of the optimal operating conditions in the gasdynamic carbon dioxide laser is solved in such a way as to maximize the gain for the P20(001)→(100) transition in the case of nozzles of arbitrary shape. A comparison is made with the results of optimization obtained for planar wedge-shaped nozzles. The optimal initial conditions (temperature, pressure, and composition) are found and the optimal nozzle shape is obtained for mixtures of carbon dioxide with nitrogen and helium. A continuous increase in the gain with rising pressure is predicted for optimal operation of the gasdynamic laser.