Principal Investigator: James Lawler Title: Research on Plasma Light Sources In this research, investigations into the use of suitable atomic systems for High Intensity Discharge (HID) plasma lighting will be carried out. The research has three parts: (1) investigation and measurements of the radiative lifetimes of the rare earth elements Dysprosium (Dy) and Holmium (Ho) as promising candidates for use in high intensity discharge lamps, (2) development of a two photon absorption technique as a diagnostic for high intensity discharge lamps (3) investigation of atomic Barium (Ba) as a possible atomic radiator of much greater efficiency than is currently available. This third investigation could represent a breakthrough for the plasma lighting industry. The lighting industry consortium ALITE has identified the search for new HID gaseous radiating systems as a research topic with the highest priority for the development of improved light sources. Improved light sources is an area of significant economic and environmental importance for the Untied States and for the world.
