Flashlamp probe source for nanosecond spectroscopic studies in the ultraviolet

Implementation of a high-pressure (7.5-atm) compact arc flashlamp as a probe source for ultraviolet spectroscopic measurements is described. Trigger circuitry is given which operates the lamp in simmered mode with discharge voltages up to 6 kV (energy 3.6 J) producing a 1-micros (FWHM) duration flash. Spectral outputs of lamps with argon, krypton, and xenon fill gasses are compared. Excellent UV output is obtained for both krypton and xenon with peak spectral output between 200 and 300 nm as measured by an optical multichannel analyzer. The lamps are inexpensive and have lifetimes of >100,000 flashes.