Effect of gas convection induced by cross-field discharge in a copper vapor laser

Magnetic field has been applied to a copper vapor laser with an intention o f improving the laser characteristics by inner gas convection. The convecti on induced by the J x B cross-field discharge (the Lorentz force) is used f or partially replacing or mixing the laser medium in a highly heated discha rged region with relatively cold gas surrounding the region. It is observed that the output power increases with the increase of the magnetic field. A 23% increase in the output power is obtained with a magnetic field of 150 gauss. The cross-field discharge causes an increase in the peak discharge v oltage and a reduction in the initial part of discharge current (Phantom cu rrent). Based on the results observed, the possible mechanisms For increasi ng the power are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reser ved.