Amplification of radiation due to the four-photon parametric process in potassium vapor

The results of the experimental investigation of the radiation amplification due to the stimulated four-photon parametric process in potassium vapor are reported. Two cells with active medium (an oscillatoramplifier system) are used in the experiments. The dominating role of IR radiation 6S → 5P (3.66 µm) in the amplification of violet radiation 5P → 4S (0.4 µm) generated due to the parametric process at two-photon excitation 4S → 6S is shown. This role is conditioned by optically pumped stimulated emission (OPSE). Optical conditions for the amplification of a seed radiation are determined in accordance with their intensity and the buffer gas (He) pressure. The problem of the image conversion from the IR to a visible one with quantum efficiency above 100% is discussed.