Optimization of the chemical composition of the active medium of a CO laser utilizing ion-heterogeneous conversion of impurity gases on graphite

Abstract

Investigations were made of the conversion and sorption of the impurity gases CO2, O2, H2, and water vapor present in the active mixture of a carbon monoxide laser with a sealed active element, utilizing ion-heterogeneous processes. A graphite cathode was employed as the active surface and reagent for a chain of physicochemical conversions. Ion activation of heterogeneous reactions between the impurities and the graphite was shown to be a radical method for controlling the chemical composition of the active medium and for optimizing it, making it possible to improve the energy parameters of a CO laser oscillator having a sealed active element, as well as to lengthen its service life and its shelf life.