Theoretical investigation of an annular supersonic model of a chemical DF–CO2 laser

An investigation was made of an annular supersonic model of a chemical DF–CO₂ laser. It was shown that such a model enables higher laser energy characteristics to be obtained (compared with those in a plane model), a considerable reduction to be made in the radiation loading on the mirrors of the optical system, and much higher initial static pressures to be used. It was established that in the case of a strong radial expansion of the gas stream, the laser energetics are extremely sensitive to changes in the initiation level of the chain reaction.