Tunable kHz Deep Ultraviolet (193–210 nm) Laser for Raman Applications

Abstract

The performance characteristics of a kilohertz solid-state laser source for ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy are described. Deep ultraviolet (UV) excitation in the 193–210 nm region is provided by mixing of the fundamental and third harmonics of a Ti–sapphire laser, which is pumped by the second harmonic of a Q-Switched Nd–YLF laser. The combination of tunability, narrow linewidth, high average power, good stability, and kilohertz repetition rate makes this laser suitable for deep UV resonance Raman applications. The short pulse duration (∼20 ns) permits nanosecond time resolution in pump–probe applications. The low peak power and high data rate provide artifact-free spectra with a high signal-to-noise ratio. UV Raman cross-section and Raman excitation profiles are reported for gaseous O2 (relative to N2), aqueous ClO4−, tyrosine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, histidine, and hemoglobin excited between 193 nm and 210 nm to illustrate laser performance.