Krypton laser is an ion laser, a type of gas laser using krypton ions as a gain medium, pumped by electric discharge. Argon laser is very similar, using argon ions.

Krypton lasers are used for scientific research, or when krypton is mixed with argon, for creation of "white-light" lasers, useful for laser light shows. Krypton lasers are also used in medicine (eg. for coagulation of retina), for manufacture of security holograms, and numerous other purposes.

Krypton lasers emit at several wavelengths through the visible spectrum: at 406.7 nm, 413.1 nm, 415,4 nm, 468.0 nm, 476.2 nm, 482.5 nm, 520.8 nm, 530.9 nm, 568.2 nm, 647.1 nm, 676.4 nm.

Argon lasers are used for retinal phototherapy (for diabetes), lithography, and pumping other lasers.

Argon lasers emit at several wavelengths through the visible and ultraviolet spectrum: 351 nm, 454.6 nm, 457.9 nm, 465.8 nm, 476.5 nm, 488.0 nm, 496.5 nm, 501.7 nm, 514.5 nm, 528.7 nm.

Common argon and krypton lasers are capable of emitting continual wave output of several milliwatt for tens to hundreds of seconds. Their tubes are usually made of kovar, beryllium oxide ceramics, or copper.

In comparison with the helium-neon lasers requiring just a few milliamps, the current used for pumping the krypton laser ranges in several amperes, as the gas has to be ionized. The ion laser tube produces a lot of waste heat and requires active cooling.

A mix of argon and krypton can result in a laser with output wavelength appearing as white light.

External links

• Sam's Laser FAQ: Argon/krypton ion lasers

Lasers