Coherent light generation from a Nd:SBN nonlinear laser crystal through its ferroelectric phase transition

In this Letter we have used the optical pump induced thermal loading to drive Nd(3+) a doped Sr(0,47)Ba(0.53)(Nb)(3))(2) laser crystal during laser operation through its ferroelectric phase transition. We demonstrate that lasing is possible below, at, and above phase transition. For temperatures close to (approximately 105 degrees C) the spatial distribution of laser radiation is remarkably affected. This feature, which leads to a laser gain depression, can be explained in terms of the strong temperature dependence of the thermo-optic coefficient during phase transition. Additionally, the visible radiation generated by intracavity self-frequency doubling disappears when the phase transition is undergone, showing a bistable behavior. The results provide fundamental information on physical parameters along the phase transition and will stimulate further work in the fields of nonlinear optics, optical switching, and data storage.