Stimulated Raman scattering of XeF* laser radiation in H2

Stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) experiments have been performed using an ∼2 J,~0.4 pulsewidth XeF* laser as the pump and high-pressure molecular hydrogen as the Raman-active medium. The SRS conversion efficiency and spectral distribution have been characterized as functions of H2pressure and pump laser focal parameters. Energy conversion efficiencies of >60 percent have been obtained, with the converted energy in first and second Stokes radiation, at 414 nm and 500 nm, respectively.