Numerical simulation of regenerative amplification of nanosecond pulses in a CO2 laser

The results are given of a numerical simulation of regenerative amplification of nanosecond pulses in a highpower electric-discharge CO₂ laser. The finite contrast of the injected pulse is allowed for in a determination of the ranges of the injection energy and time in which regenerative amplification can be expected. It is shown that the shape of a small-signal pulse has a considerable influence on the energy and contrast of the output pulse. The optimal combinations of the parameters of a regenerative amplification system are determined so as to maximize the energy and contrast of nanosecond pulses.