Optimization of power performance in room-temperature continuous-wave Cr4+: YAG lasers

Experimental and numerical studies were carried out to investigate the powe r performance and the role of thermal loading in room-temperature Cr4+:YAG lasers. The numerical model accounts for thermal loading effects due to the temperature dependence of the fluorescence lifetime. Experimental pump abs orption. laser threshold. and laser efficiency data were first analyzed to determine the absorption, emission, and excited-state absorption cross-sect ions. Best-fit cross-section values were then used to perform numerical opt imization studies. Results showed that a 2-cm-long crystal with a total uns aturated pump absorption of 64% at 1064 nm, should produce the maximum outp ut power from the laser. Furthermore, the optimum output coupling of the re sonator was determined to be 1.7%, (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier Science B .V.