Abstract

Classical excimers have proved their efficiency as laser media in the UV and visible spectral range. To extend the laser emission to VUV wavelengths, ionic excimer molecules seem to be a good solution.^1,2 In particular, rare-gas alkali mixtures have already permitted the observation of strong VUV fluorescence emission from Xe⁺ Li (190 nm) to Ne⁺ Li (80 nm).^3,4 These emissions have been obtained mainly with soft X rays from a laser-produced plasma and ion- beam excitation. To study these mixtures at higher pressures (>1 atm.) for the purpose of producing a laser effect, we investigated high-intensity, pulsed electron-beam excitation.

© 1991 Optical Society of America