The “Katran” CO2 Laser with High Specific Output Power and Stable Parameters

The design and parameters of the UV-preionized discharge module “Katran” are described. A particular feature of the scheme is a high-voltage pulse formation technique for sharp discharge current ignition to stabilize the self-sustained glow discharge. The free-running laser based on the discharge module allows one to obtain high specific laser power exceeding 145 MW/liter in the P(20) line for the 10-μm band for an active volume of 3 liters. Duration of the first spike of generation is 30 ns FWHM and energy content is about 65% of the total pulse energy. The high reliability and reproducibility of the module's operation for a wide range of parameters ensures laser suitability for different scientific and technical applications.