Source: Nature

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The World of Laser Crystals

Introduction

Laser crystals play a crucial role in various laser systems, enabling the generation of coherent and powerful laser beams across different wavelengths. Let’s explore some common types of laser crystals and their applications.

Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG)

Nd:YAG is a popular laser crystal used in 1064-nm lasers, making it ideal for industrial, medical, and research applications. Its excellent thermal and optical properties make it a versatile choice for solid-state lasers.

Titanium-Doped Sapphire (Ti:sapphire)

Ti:sapphire crystals are well-known for their ultrafast laser capabilities, making them essential in applications such as spectroscopy, biomedical imaging, and material processing. These crystals offer broad tunability and high power output.

Erbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Er:YAG)

Er:YAG crystals are commonly used in medical and cosmetic lasers for procedures like skin resurfacing and hair removal. The 2940-nm wavelength of Er:YAG lasers is highly absorbed by water, making them effective for soft tissue ablation.

Ytterbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Yb:YAG)

Yb:YAG crystals are valued for their high efficiency and power output, particularly in high-power laser applications. They are used in materials processing, welding, and other industrial applications requiring robust and reliable lasers.

Conclusion

Laser crystals are essential components in a wide range of laser systems, each offering unique properties that cater to specific applications. Understanding the characteristics and applications of different laser crystals is key to selecting the right crystal for your laser system needs.

Source: site.ieee.org
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