Optimization of the chemical composition of the active medium of a CO laser utilizing ion-heterogeneous conversion of impurity gases on graphite

Investigations were made of the conversion and sorption of the impurity gases CO₂, O₂, H₂, and water vapor present in the active mixture of a carbon monoxide laser with a sealed active element, utilizing ion-heterogeneous processes. A graphite cathode was employed as the active surface and reagent for a chain of physicochemical conversions. Ion activation of heterogeneous reactions between the impurities and the graphite was shown to be a radical method for controlling the chemical composition of the active medium and for optimizing it, making it possible to improve the energy parameters of a CO laser oscillator having a sealed active element, as well as to lengthen its service life and its shelf life.