Stimulated Raman Gain Spectroscopy Utilizing Counter-Propagating Pulsed Dye Lasers

Abstract

A simplified experimental arrangement, in which the laser beams are counter-propagating, has allowed the acquisition of Raman gain spectra without the aid of optically dispersive devices. The method allows high spectral resolution with the spatial rejection of fluorescence typical of coherent Raman techniques. Access to the low-frequency spectral region has revealed stimulated gain involving mechanical waves of the bulk medium. Quasi-continuous scans of the entire vibrational region have been made using only two laser dyes.