Accession Number:

ADA183892

Title:

Laser Induced EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse) at 10.6 Microns

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. Jan 1984-Jun 1986

Corporate Author:

PLASMA RESEARCH CORP ALAMEDA CA

Personal Author(s):

• Dahlbacka, Glen
• Guillory, John

Report Date:

1987-05-01

Pagination or Media Count:

135.0

Abstract:

An extensive experimental session was analyzed 1200 shots to investigate the behavior of Laser Induced Electromagnetic Pulse LIEMP parametrically with CO2 laser intensity within a decade of 10 GWsq cm 2 and with air pressure from 1 microtorr to a torr. Measured electric fields on a ground plane and current measured 3 cm from the target were compared to theory. One hundred eV suprathermal electrons 1.6 keV maximum energy create the LIEMP after laser light, self-focussed a few fold, is resonantly absorbed. The model predicts electric field scaling as Intensity12 as observed, but current scaling is not reproduced. The electric fields are no threat for CO2 and shorter wavelengths, but may pose a threat for millimeter waves. Pressure dependencies are reproduced with classical energy loss in gasses.

Descriptors:

• *LASER PUMPING
• *CARBON DIOXIDE LASERS
• *ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSES
• THERMAL PROPERTIES
• GROUND LEVEL
• PLASMAS(PHYSICS)
• ENERGY
• ELECTRIC FIELDS
• MILLIMETER WAVES
• PULSED LASERS
• PULSE GENERATORS
• LASERS
• LASER BEAMS
• ELECTRONS
• SCALING FACTOR
• LOSSES

Subject Categories:

• Lasers and Masers
• Electromagnetic Pulses

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE