Abstract

Tunable solid-state lasers with direct UV pumping, based on d-f transitions of rare-earth ions incorporated in wide band-gap dielectric crystals,^1,2 have been shown to be reliable sources of laser radiation that are suitable for excitation of combustion-related free radicals in laser- induced fluorescence (LIF) analytical flame characterization experiments.³ Here we report results of our continuing efforts aimed at devising an autonomous portable analytical unit for combustion studies under microgravity conditions for spacebome and/or airborne scientific missions.

© 1996 Optical Society of America