High-power multibeam CO2 laser excited by an ac discharge

A report is given of the construction of a high-power (P ~ 1 kW) multibeam cw CO₂ laser, with diffusive cooling of the gas mixture and excited by a 10 kHz ac discharge. The design of the laser is described and experimental measurements of its basic characteristics presented. These included measurements of the laser divergence and an investigation of the influence of the pressure, composition, and circulation velocity of the gas mixture on the laser output power. The experimental data obtained and a comparison of the parameters with those of other known lasers are used to discuss its advantages and prospects for use in technological applications are discussed.