Formation of the active medium in high-power repetitively pulsed gas lasers pumped by an electron-beam-controlled discharge

A high-power repetitively pulsed e-beam-controlled discharge CO₂ laser is simulated numerically; the simulation results are compared with experimental data. Optimal sizes and design of electrodes and configuration of the external magnetic field are found, which allow one to introduce no less than 90% electric pump energy into a specified volume of the active medium, including the active volume of a laser with an aperture of 110 × 110 cm. The results obtained can also be used to design other types of highpower gas lasers. (lasers)