Dynamics of transverse separation of metal vapors in cataphoretic lasers

An investigation was made of the process which established a steady-state transverse distribution in a discharge mixture used in a cataphoretic laser tube. Interaction of metals of the second group (Cd, Zn, Hg) with the surfaces of glass discharge tubes was observed. On the basis of these results it is recommended that ceramic discharge tubes be used to suppress pulsations of the metal vapor density.