A new type of corona-discharge photoionization source for gas lasers

Abstract

We present results of an experimental study aimed at characterizing a new type of corona-discharge photon source, which is particularly suitable to be used as preionizer in transversely excited gas lasers operating at high pulse repetition frequencies. Results of comparative tests carried out in CO2 laser gas mixtures between this photoionization source and a conventional bare spark source are also reported, showing the superiority of the proposed scheme.