Multipurpose high-power electrogasdynamic CO laser

A novel mobile self-contained ecologically acceptable cw high-power CO laser is proposed. This laser is intended for a variety of applications and is based on standard electrical machinery with a gas-turbine drive. The novelty lies in the formation of a laser mixture during the operation of the laser by combustion of a chemical fuel. The light-emitting CO molecules are excited by a natural discharge in a supersonic stream. The results are given of a feasibility test of a model prototype CO laser based on combustion products when the CO molecules were excited by an electric discharge. Possible technological applications of the proposed laser are considered. The likelihood of its extensive use in industry and in special tasks, which should lead to a high demand for the laser, are discussed.