Technical Comparison: CO₂ Lasers vs. Fiber Lasers
1. Fundamental Laser Physics
- CO₂ Lasers
- Gain Medium: Gas mixture (CO₂, N₂, He).
- Wavelength: 10.6 μm (far-infrared).
- Mode of Operation: Excitation via electrical discharge across gas; typically continuous-wave (CW) or pulsed.
- Photon-Material Interaction: Strong absorption by dielectrics, ceramics, polymers, water-rich tissues; weaker absorption in metals unless surface is pre-treated (e.g., with coatings).