Compact, Multipulse Agile Laser for Spectrochemical Applications

High-energy, tunable, pulsed lasers are vital components in many state-of-the-art optical systems, including Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) for standoff spectrochemical detection and analysis of explosives and other chemicals. In order to enhance the signal and improve repeatability, it is necessary to perform LIBS measurements in dual-pulse mode, with two short high-energy pulses with a variable delay. Radiation Monitoring Devices, Inc., in collaboration with Dr. Chandra Khattak from Crystal systems, Inc., proposes to develop a novel laser system specifically suited for double-pulse LIBS experiments, based on a new gain medium and a unique Q-switched cavity to extract the pulses in the required fashion. The laser will deliver pulses of ~10 ns width and 50-200 mJ energies with pulse separation between 1 and 10 s. It will be wavelength agile and will also have the capability for wavelength tuning.