Abstract

Stimulated Raman scattering experiments in hydrogen have been performed using long pulse (0.4 µsec) e-beam pumped XeF lasers. The intent was to maximize conversion to second Stokes wavelengths in the blue-green (500 nm). Narrow, collimated pump beams were used in order to minimize four-wave processes by keeping the aspect ratio of the pumped volume below the phase matching angle. Conversion was determined as a function of intensity by varying the pump beam diameter in the hydrogen cell and as a function of path length by varying the length of the cell. A maximum conversion of greater than 40 percent was observed. No anti-Stokes radiation was seen, indicating that four-wave processes were not significant with this collimated geometry.

© 1983 Optical Society of America