This two-year U.S.-China cooperative research project on excimer laser studies between Frank Tittel and Roland Sauerbrey of Rice University and Zuguang Ma of the Harbin Institute of Technology addresses two basic and challenging problems in the field of visible laser systems and novel and promising ultraviolet lasers: (1) the investigators will evaluate and implement techniques leading to a more efficient, direct electrical excitation of broad band excimer lasers; and (2) establish experimental and theoretical criteria needed to assess the feasibility of novel, short wavelength lasers (the VUV and XUV region of the electromagnetic field). This research will yield new, fundamental knowledge on lasers and improved laser devices that have important applications in electronic materials processing, remote sensing and biomedical research. The Rice University and Harbin Institute of Technology collaboration is based on complimentary research strengths and resources. Both groups have considerable expertise in laser spectroscopy. The Rice group is particularly expert in kinetics of excimer laser media; whereas, the Harbin group has considerable experience in discharge laser physics. Linkage of the Rice and Harbin facilities and expertise promotes the major purpose of a U.S.-China Cooperative Science Program; which is, to advance scientific knowledge through combined scientific efforts and abilities of American and Chinese scientists and engineers.
