Axial cataphoresis effects in continuously pulsed copper halide lasers

It has been observed in a continuously pulsed copper halide laser that laser performance deteriorates rapidly due to axial cataphoresis effects. Dissociated copper ions are pumped cataphoretically toward the cathode by the applied electric field, causing nonuniform laser discharges and preferential copper condensation near the cathode. These effects can be eliminated experimentally by alternating the polarity of the applied voltage either mechanically or electronically. This improvement permits long-lived copper halide laser operating at average power levels in the 1–10-W range.