Abstract
We present a radical approach for improving the efficiency of optically pumped NMMW lasers in which the Manley-Rowe limit is transcended by recycling pump photons. The resulting new class of lasers, called photon recyclers, can be described as heat engines in which heat is converted into coherent NMMW radiation using pump photons as a catalyst. Practical implementation of the proposed schemes by combining features of optically pumped NMMW lasers and gas dynamic expansion is discussed. Such systems may yield high power c.w. NMMW output.
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This result follows from a rate equation calculation with both infrared and NMMW transitions fully saturated. A more complete analysis, in which Raman-type processes are included is expected to give slightly different results, with somewhat higher output efficiencies.
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Work supported by U.S. Army Research Office, Durham, NC.
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Thomas, J.E., Dasari, R.R. & Feld, M.S. Photon recyclers. Int J Infrared Milli Waves 3, 137–151 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01007091
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01007091