Effects of gaseous contaminants on gas dynamic laser performance

Abstract : A shock tube driven gas dynamic laser is being used to study the effect of gaseous contaminants upon laser performance. The performance is being evaluated in terms of the small signal gain measured at 10.6 micrometers (P (18) transition). Contaminants being studied include sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen chloride. Comparisons of measured and calculated values of small signal gain have been made for cases where adequate kinetic rate data was available. Allowable levels of these contaminants and their implications are discussed. (Modified author abstract)