LiF Color-Center Formation and uv Transmission Losses from Argon and Hydrogen Discharges

Abstract

The transmission losses of lithium fluoride used in conjunction with vacuum-ultraviolet sources were investigated and found to originate mainly from LiF color-center formation caused by absorption of radiation in the LiF fundamental band. The observed absorption features have been studied, including bands at 1120, 2500, 4500, and 6200 Å in addition to a continuum in the 1000–3000-Å wavelength region. The continuum and the bands at 1120 and 2500 Å were found to be primary features, while the 4500- and 6200-Å bands are of secondary origin. The 2500-Å band was shown to be the lithium fluoride F band.