A model for laser isotope separation in SF6

Abstract

We propose a model for the effect of CO2 laser radiation in decomposing and separating isotopes of SF6. Analytic expressions for oscillator strengths are derived for discrete-to-discrete, discrete-to-continuum, and continuum-to-continuum energy level transitions. Loss in oscillator strength as the system is driven up the manifold is compensated for by a cooperative power broadening that contains an explicit dependence on level degeneracies. Isotope selectivity and yield at low pressures are computed as a function of laser intensity, and a threshold in yield is found at approximately 14 MW/cm2.