Investigation of concept of efficient short wavelength laser. Quarterly progress report, 1 May 1978-31 July 1978

Emphasis on this program has shifted to the design and construction of two proof-of-concept laser device experiments based on azide chemistry. The laser concepts and the resulting experiments are briefly described in this quarterly report. Preliminary shake-down of the apparatus is now underway. In addition, measurements to provide critical kinetic and spectroscopic data in support of these laser-demonstration experiments have continued at a reduced level of effort. In particular, the solid azide pyrolysis experiment has been reactivated to obtain more quantitative data on branching ratios of certain critical processes. Finally, design and construction has begun on a system to provide 4.9 ..mu.. radiation to explore multiphoton dissociation of C1N/sub 3/ as an initiation technique.