Investigation of the efficiency of pumping of fast-flow CO2 lasers by an alternating-current discharge

An experimental investigation was made of the efficiency of pumping of a fast-flow CO₂ laser by an alternating-current discharge of 10 kHz frequency. A specific energy input of 300 J/g and a total vibrational efficiency of at least 50-60% were achieved in such a discharge. An analysis was made of the advantages of the proposed excitation method in various applications of lasers in technology.