Generation of multicolor laser light via stimulated Raman scattering in N2

Abstract

Stimulated Raman scattering in high pressure molecular nitrogen is employed to convert the second harmonic (532 nm) output of a Q-switched (6-7 ns FWHM) Nd:YAG laser into ultraviolet, visible and near infrared laser light. Seven Raman lines, ranging from 355 nm – 847 nm are generated. Four of these lines through anti-Stokes Raman shifting (AS) while the remaining three, via Stokes Raman shifting (S). The spectra and temporal profiles of these Raman lines are studied at a 4.14 MPa N₂ pressure and 532 nm excitation energy of 1.75 J. All Raman components are observed to have sub-nanosecond pulse widths (FWHM) ranging from approximately 600 ps – 880 ps.