Carbon isotope selective separation from MPD of CF3Br with a TEA CO2 laser

Pure CF3Br and mixtures of this substance with monoatomic (He, Ar and Xe), homonuclear diatomic (H-2, D-2, N-2), polyatomic gases (CF4) and NO have be en irradiated with a TEA CO2 laser. Carbon-13 enrichment factor and carbon- 13 selectivity have been estimated from the mass spectrometric analysis of the undissociated CF3Br as a function of excitation wavelength, fluence, te mperature and pressure. The irradiating wavelength is a crucial parameter t o achieve enrichment. The nature of the added gas also affects considerably selectivity. Best enrichment is achieved in mixtures with NO due to its ra dical-like character.