High-power electric-discharge CO2 laser with easily ionizable substances added to the mixture

Optimization of the pumping regime and of the resonator parameters, and also the correct choice of easily ionizable additives to the active mixture of a CO₂ laser excited by a self-sustained discharge ensured a specific output energy of 51 J/liter and a conversion efficiency of electrical into optical energy of 22% in an active medium volume of 16 liters.