Laser induced plasma channels and electrolasers?

In summary, the individual is seeking advice and input on generating a laser induced plasma channel and wants to know the best wavelength and the effects of increasing the power of the laser. They also mention using a toroid shaped electrode and their goal of using the plasma channel for wireless power distribution and energy collection. They are cautioned about the potential dangers and limitations of this concept.
  • #1
jason41987
1
0
hey everyone.. I am looking to generate a laser induced plasma channel along the majority of the length of the laser beam and was looking for some advice and input...

i was wondering if anyones done any experimentation with laser induced plasma channels and may have some information as to the best wavelength for creating a plasma channel?...

ive read from other projects that it takes relatively low power to create a plasma channel using an 808nm infrared laser of course focused into a finer beam through a lense, but I am curious as to what effect an increase of power in the laser itself might have.. i was thinking of using a 1W 808nm infrared solid state laser and test what happens differently between a steady stream

around this laser beam itself will be a torroid shaped electrode to collect any energy that may travel up the stream and back to the laser itself, as well as inject electrical currents and electrical frequencies into the channel

so.. has anyone done any testing of this sort? id be interested in hearing about results..

my goal in this is basically wireless power distribution and maybe, if i had a plasma channel long enough, i would try to use it as a lightning rod to collect energy from storms and perhaps find some way to store it.. but for now i mostly want to play with the concept and see just what its limits are on a 1W or less power scale
 
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  • #2


Hello there,

Thank you for your post about generating a laser induced plasma channel. I am a scientist with experience in laser technology and I would be happy to provide you with some advice and input.

Firstly, I must caution that experimenting with laser induced plasma channels can be dangerous and should only be done with proper safety precautions in place. Now, to answer your question about the best wavelength for creating a plasma channel, it largely depends on the material being used and the desired outcome. Generally, shorter wavelengths, such as ultraviolet or visible light, have a higher ionization potential and can create a plasma channel more easily. However, longer wavelengths, such as infrared, can also be used with higher power to achieve similar results.

In terms of increasing the power of the laser, it can definitely have an effect on the plasma channel. Higher power can lead to a more stable and longer-lasting plasma channel, but it can also increase the risk of damage to the material being used. It is important to carefully consider the power and intensity of the laser beam for safety reasons.

I have not personally done any testing with a toroid shaped electrode, but it sounds like an interesting concept. It may be worth experimenting with different shapes and configurations to see how it affects the plasma channel.

Your goal of using a plasma channel for wireless power distribution and energy collection is certainly intriguing. However, it is important to note that the efficiency of this method may be limited and it may be difficult to achieve significant power output. I would recommend doing further research and calculations to assess the feasibility and potential limitations of this idea.

I hope this information is helpful to you. Please feel free to reach out with any further questions or updates on your experiments. Good luck with your project!
 

1. What is a laser induced plasma channel?

A laser induced plasma channel is a long, narrow column of ionized gas that is created when a high-intensity laser pulse is focused on a target material. This intense laser energy causes the atoms in the target material to become excited and eventually break apart, creating a plasma state.

2. How are laser induced plasma channels used in electrolasers?

Electrolasers use laser induced plasma channels as a guiding path for electrical discharges. The plasma channel acts as a conductor, allowing an electrical current to travel through it and create a directed energy beam.

3. What materials can be used to create laser induced plasma channels?

Various materials can be used to create laser induced plasma channels, including gases such as air, noble gases, and other organic compounds. Solid materials such as metals and semiconductors can also be used.

4. What are some potential applications of laser induced plasma channels and electrolasers?

Laser induced plasma channels and electrolasers have a wide range of potential applications, including lightning control, remote sensing, atmospheric sensing, and laser propulsion. They are also being studied for potential use in high-energy particle accelerators and as a tool for studying plasma physics.

5. What are some challenges in developing laser induced plasma channels and electrolasers?

One of the main challenges in developing laser induced plasma channels and electrolasers is controlling and maintaining the stability of the plasma channel. This involves precise control of the laser parameters and understanding the dynamics of the plasma formation. Another challenge is scaling up the technology for larger applications, as the current technology is limited to smaller plasma channels.

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