Pulsed laser utilizing a fluorine and hydrogen mixture

An investigation was made of fast initiation of the reaction F+H₂=HF*+H in a short high-power electric discharge. The spectral composition of the stimulated emission and the time dependence of this emission, relative to the discharge current, were determined. Efficient initiation of the reaction occurred when the average energy of electrons in the discharge was ~1.5 eV. Under optimal conditions the output power was ~300 kW, the energy was ~5·10^–2 J per pulse, and the electrical efficiency was ~8%.