Modelling of the self-sustained transverse-discharge excited xenon chloride laser

Abstract

This thesis discusses computational techniques for modelling high pressure self-sustained transverse-discharge excited gas lasers, with special reference to the XeCl laser. The laser discharge is modelled in up to two spatial dimensions, including a numerical calculation of the electric fields taking account of the electrode profile and distribution of conductivity within the discharge. A detailed plasma chemistry model for the XeCl laser is developed, and validated by extensive comparisons with experimental data.