High-power CW ultraviolet ion lasers

Over 1 watt of continuous ultraviolet output has been obtained from an argon ion laser in the 3500-3700Å range. This paper describes the discharge tube structure used and the operating characteristics of high-power ultraviolet laser transitions in argon and other noble gas ions. Operation at new wavelengths as well as CW operation of transitions previously observed only in pulsed operation are reported. Measurements of the dependence of spontaneous emission intensity fronl different ionization states on current and pressure are related to the excitation mechanisms for visible and uv ion lasers. The technique of population modulation by intracavity interruption has been used to study processes in the throat and uniform bore regions of ion laser discharges. The results of these studies are described. Problems encountered in the CW operation of ion laser discharge tubes at current densities above 1000Å/cm²are described.