Hybrid cathode

Details Hybrid cathode Hybrid cathode

1985-05-03

1991-08-27

Scott, Jr., Leon

Coherent light generators

Particular pumping means

Electrical

372 59, 372 34, 372 61, H01S 3097

Patent

active

050439979

ABSTRACT:
A laser is provided comprising a laser envelope and a gain medium disposed in the laser envelope. The gain medium comprises a compound subject to dissociation into a plurality of components. Circuitry is included for generating an electrical discharge in the laser envelope, a portion of the electrical discharge passing through the gain medium and disassociating a portion of the compound thereof into the plurality of components. The discharge generating circuitry comprises a cathode, the cathode comprising a first portion for emitting the electrical discharge toward an anode. Such first portion comprises a catalyst for aiding the recombination of the dissociated plurality of components. The first portion of the cathode sputters particulates therefrom during the electrical discharge and a surface is disposed within the laser envelope for collecting the sputtered particulates. Means, including a second portion of said cathode, are additionally provided for spacing the first portion of the cathode sufficiently from the collecting surface to substantially prevent the electrical discharge from being emitted from the first portion to the collected particulate, and thereby constrain the electrical discharge to occur substantially directly between the cathode and the anode. With such arrangement, the sputtered particulates are inhibited from entering the resonant cavity of the laser and adhering to the optics thereof. Thus, the useful operating life of the laser is increased.

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