UV-laser-produced plasma in gases and on metal targets

The results of investigation into the use of UV-laser produced plasma for high-current commutation are summarized. It is shown that exciplex lasers can be used as efficient triggers for megavolt gas switches. If the laser spark length is comparable with the switch gap, the triggering delay time and jitter are independent on the arc position in the gap. In other cases, the shortest delay time was observed under focusing on the electrode surface. The plasma formed by exciplex lasers on the metal targets has been studied. The plasma formation thresholds and plasma expansion velocities have been measured.