Continuous-duty argon ion lasers

The problems associated with the construction of continuous-duty dc excited ion lasers are indicated. Two solutions to the thermal dissipation and ion bombardment problem which have been experimentally tested and appear promising are described. These involve the use of axial magnetic fields with high current, low pressure, constricted arcs in large bore tubing and the use of metal-walled discharge vessels. The influence of an axial magnetic field on the properties of an ion laser is discussed, and the optical power levels which have been obtained are given.