Error reduction in pulsed laser photothermal deflection spectrometry

Abstract

Pulsed lasers are characterlzed by poor pulse-to-pulse energy and mode stabiilty thereby llmltlng their use In experlments sensitive to spatial variations. In this paper we present both experimental and computational methods of reduclng the errors assoclated with mode and pointing instablllty In photothermal defiectlon experlments where a pulsed laser Is employed. By use of these methods, a substantlal reduction In the slgnal varlance can be realized. These methods give the pulsed laser experlments a precision approaching, and In some cases exceedlng, that of contlnuous wave laser techniques.