TEA-N2 laser with a high level of average radiation power

The influence of the structure of the electrodes on the attainment of the maximum pulse repetition rates and the level of the average radiation power in TEA–N2 lasers is studied. It is shown that the use of sectioned cathodes promotes the formation of volumetric discharges at increased pulse repetition rates. The use of a cathode structure in the form of a set of pins with individual excitation of volume discharges in each gap, together with the use of preliminary ionization of gas mixtures by VUV radiation, ensures that the maximum pulse repetition rates of up to 10–12 kHz in N2:He mixtures are achieved. The maximum average radiation power of 6 W was achieved at a pulse repetition rate of 5 kHz for an N2:He mixture with an optimal component ratio of 30:730 at a total pressure of 760 Torr..