Effect of the prepulse electron density and population of the lower laser level on the pulse repetition rate achievable in a copper vapour laser

Factors are considered which restrict the limiting pulse repetition rate in a copper vapour laser. The existence of a critical prepulse electron density discussed in a paper of S. I. Yakovlenko [Quantum Electronics, 30, 501 (2000)] and new arguments in favour of the existence of the critical electron density reported in a paper of A. M. Boichenko and S. I. Yakovlenko [Quantum Electronics, 32, 172 (2002)] are analysed. The conclusion is made that the new arguments do not prove the existence of the critical electron density as well.