Photoionization and photoabsorption characteristics of laser seed compounds

Measurements are reported on the photoabsorption cross sections and photoionization yields of N,N-dimethylaniline, triethylamine, trimethylamine, and tri-n-propylamine over the wavelength region from 116 nm to near the respective ionization thresholds. The usefulness of these organic compounds for UV-preionized lasers is evaluated. The characteristics of nitric oxide as a seedant are compared with those of the organic seedants. N,N-dimethylaniline was found to have the most uniform cross section and highest overall yield.