Mercury spectrum lamp property analysis and parameter optimization

Abstract

Mercury spectrum lamp is an important part of Mercury Atomic Frequency Standard (MAFS), which is used for light pumping and state detection. It may limit the stability and the signal-to-noise ratio performance in MAFS. In this work, we experimentally demonstrate mercury spectrum lamp can work under an optimum mode by controlling the cold end temperature of the lamp. It is found the maximum radiation intensity at 194[Formula: see text]nm and the minimal 254[Formula: see text]nm/194[Formula: see text]nm ratio can be achieved simultaneously at about 55∘C. The minimal 254[Formula: see text]nm/194[Formula: see text]nm is about 24, which is an order of magnitude lower than the case in common. Meanwhile, the effect of RF excitation power on 254[Formula: see text]nm/194[Formula: see text]nm ratio and the self-absorption phenomenon of 254[Formula: see text]nm are also investigated. The result demonstrates RF excitation power has a stronger influence on the light intensity of 194[Formula: see text]nm than on that of 254[Formula: see text]nm. These experimental results could shed light on later fluorescence detection experiment in MAFS and other lamp-based applications.