F2 fuel performance in XeF lasers at ambient and elevated temperatures

Abstract

Extraction measurements of an electron beam pumped XeF laser using either F2 or NF3 as the halogen fuel (neon diluent) are presented. The laser efficiency is measured as a function of output coupling reflectivity and initial gas temperature. Despite the known absorption of F2 at the lasing wavelength (351, 353 nm), the laser efficiency is essentially identical when using either halogen fuel. Gas lifetime when using NF3 is shortened by the formation of nitrogen compounds which degrade the laser performance; this is not the case when using F2. Hence, the ability to use F2 without sacrificing laser efficiency has important implications with regard to the selection of a halogen fuel for extended gas lifetime operation.