Influence of pyrotechnic mixture formula on the output performance of continuous pyrotechnic-pumped Nd: YAG lasers

This paper investigates the influence of the formulation of pyrotechnic compositions on the output energy of pyrotechnic lasers. The study demonstrates that the combustion duration and temperature of pyrotechnic materials can be modulated by controlling the particle size of zirconium powder. Optimal combustion duration and temperature are achieved when the zirconium powder has a particle size of 200 mesh. Furthermore, the addition of phenolic resin to the pyrotechnic composition can effectively suppress the combustion rate and achieve prolonged and stable pumping. By combusting 800 mg of zirconium powder with a particle size of 200 mesh and a 2% addition of phenolic resin, a laser energy output of 734 mJ is achieved when pumping an Nd: YAG laser medium. The continuous pumping duration can be sustained for 2 to 3 seconds, with a mass-to-energy conversion efficiency of 0.92 J/g, significantly surpassing the previously reported value of 0.37 J/g. The analysis of the combustion dynamic process using a silicon bias detector and high-speed camera reveals that the overall combustion process is relatively stable, ensuring consistent laser output stability. In this paper, the optimal pyrotechnic charge ratio is achieved, which improves the mass-energy conversion rate of the continuous pyrotechnic-pumped laser by 2.5 times while also ensuring high output stability. These findings provide a new approach for the development of continuous pyrotechnic-pumped lasers.