Abstract
The results of an experimental investigation of TEA-CO2 laser mode-locking by an intracavity plasma are described in this paper. The observations evidence the critical role played by the plasma switching process; complete mode-locking was consecutive to a fast cutoff of the gain-switched laser pulse. The laser beam was focussed by the plasma at the instant of gas breakdown. The short pulse trains were depolarized, even though the gain-switched pulse producing the plasma was plane polarized. The plasma was shown to both reflect and transmit laser light by moving its relative position in the laser cavity. The results are discussed in terms of a model involving the combination of an amplitude shutter and a frequency shifter. We establish the relationship between our experiment and similar ones reported in the literature.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
