The influence of active ion concentration and crystal parameters on pulsedCr : YAG laser performance

An experimental investigation of the effects of crystal characteristics on Cr:YAG laser performance was carried out. Slope efficiency, threshold, and gain-switching parameters are analysed in terms of Cr4+ ion concentration, parasitic loss, and excited state absorption. Laser tuning range and mode s tructure were examined in each case. Results are compared with the predicti ons of a rate equation model, which extends a simple gain-switching treatme nt to include excited state absorption and dynamic pump effects. A best fit to experimental data is used to predict Cr:YAG cross-sections within the w ide range of published values. A crystal with low Cr4+ ion concentration ga ve higher output energy and broader tuning range than more recently develop ed heavily-doped material. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserv ed.