Source: IBTimes UK

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Metal Vapor Lasers

Overview

Metal vapor lasers are a type of gas lasers that use metal vapor as the laser gain medium. The laser-active agents in these lasers are metal atoms or metal ions. These lasers emit light across a range of wavelengths from infrared to ultraviolet.

Operation

Metal vapor lasers typically require high temperatures to create the vapor needed for laser operation. This is often achieved through an intense arc discharge. The gain medium is contained within a quartz tube with electrodes, laser mirrors, and optical windows.

Types of Metal Vapor Lasers

Copper Vapor Lasers

Copper vapor lasers are among the most powerful metal vapor lasers. They operate in the green or yellow spectrum and are commonly used in laser shows and various medical applications like photodynamic therapy. These lasers can be pulsed or operate continuously, depending on the design.

Alkali Vapor Lasers

Alkali vapor lasers use elements like cesium or rubidium as the gain medium. These lasers are known for their high power efficiency and can be pumped with laser diodes. They find applications in spectroscopy and brightness conversion.

Helium-Cadmium Lasers

Helium-cadmium lasers emit light in the blue and ultraviolet spectrum. They are used in fields like spectroscopy and holography. While blue helium-cadmium lasers are being replaced by more compact laser diodes, the 325-nm versions are still in demand for certain applications.

Conclusion

Metal vapor lasers offer a versatile range of applications across different industries. From powerful copper vapor lasers for laser shows to efficient alkali vapor lasers for spectroscopy, these lasers continue to play a significant role in various technological advancements.

Source: FindLight
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