Source: FLIR
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Laser Crystals in Solid-State Lasers
Introduction
Laser crystals are essential components used as gain media in solid-state lasers. These optical crystals are typically doped with rare earth or transition metal ions to amplify light through stimulated emission.
Common Laser-active Dopants
Various rare earth ions such as neodymium, ytterbium, erbium, thulium, holmium, and cerium are commonly used as laser-active dopants in crystals. Transition-metal ions like titanium and chromium are also utilized for their optical properties.
Important Properties of Host Crystals
The host crystal plays a crucial role in laser performance. Properties such as thermal conductivity, absorption and emission bandwidth, and birefringence are vital considerations when selecting a crystal for a specific laser application.
Common Crystalline Laser Host Media
Various crystal groups like garnets, sapphire, sesquioxides, vanadates, fluorides, silicates, and chalcogenides are commonly used as laser host media. Each group offers unique properties that influence laser functionality.
Laser Crystals with Integrated Saturable Absorber
Some laser crystals incorporate saturable absorber materials for passive Q-switching of lasers. This design eliminates the need for separate absorber crystals, leading to more compact laser setups with reduced losses.
Geometries of Laser Crystals
Laser crystals come in various geometric forms such as cuboids, slabs, rods, disks, and special shapes for specific laser designs. The geometry of the crystal influences factors like pump absorption efficiency and beam quality.
Optimization of Geometry and Parameters
Optimizing crystal dimensions, dopant concentration, and additional parameters is crucial for maximizing laser performance. Factors like pump source, pumping arrangement, and laser design influence the ideal crystal geometry.
Optical Surfaces
The surfaces of laser crystals are critical for beam quality and laser efficiency. Surfaces are often oriented at Brewster’s angle or coated to minimize reflections. Surface quality and treatment impact scattering, wavefront distortions, and damage thresholds.
Conclusion
Choosing the right laser crystal is essential for achieving optimal laser performance. By understanding the properties and applications of different laser crystals, researchers and engineers can design lasers tailored to specific needs.
Source: FLIR
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