Abstract

We have developed a theoretical model for the regenerative amplification of ultrashort mid-infrared radiation in high-pressure transverse electric discharge ${\mathrm{CO}}_2$ lasers. This model is based on counter-propagating wave equations that are combined with Boltzmann equation, six-temperature, and circuit-coupled kinetic models. For the first time to our knowledge, the effect of spontaneous emission is taken into account. The model describes noise behavior, contrast ratio, and self-lasing of amplified spontaneous emission. The proposed scheme allows the attainment of a few-picosecond pulse with GW-level peak power and contrast ratio on the order of ${10}^6$ in the 9 μm range.

© 2018 Optical Society of America

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