A continuous-wave DF chemical laser on an ethylene-based fuel composition

The consequences of replacing the primary fuel, hydrogen, as a part of the conventional F₂ – H₂ – He DF-laser fuel composition by ethylene are studied experimentally. During comparative tests of the laser with different primary fuels, the completeness of combustion of the fuel mixtures is assessed and their optimal chemical compositions, at which the energy and spectral characteristics of laser radiation are measured, are determined. It is shown that, when C₂H₄ is used instead of H₂, an increase in the specific laser energy yield of 37 % without a change in the active-medium length is ensured and radiation within the range of 3.75 – 4.18 μm is generated.