Diode-pumped regenerative amplifier delivering 100-mJ single-mode laser pulses

Area of Science:

• Laser Physics
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• High-energy pulsed lasers are crucial for various scientific and industrial applications.
• Nd:phosphate laser systems offer potential for high-energy output but require efficient amplification techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a high-energy, single transverse mode (TEM) pulsed laser system.
• To optimize energy extraction from a side-pumped Nd:phosphate laser regenerative amplifier.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a side-pumped Nd:phosphate laser regenerative amplifier configuration.
• Employed an intracavity fused-silica phase plate for mode shaping.
• Used a telescope for precise beam mode matching to the amplification rod.
• Investigated performance at pumping currents of 80 A and above.

Main Results:

• Achieved laser pulses with energies exceeding 100 mJ in a single TEM mode.
• Demonstrated an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of up to 10%.
• Confirmed efficient energy transfer due to optimized beam overlap and low-loss design.

Conclusions:

• The developed Nd:phosphate laser regenerative amplifier system effectively delivers high-energy, high-quality laser pulses.
• The implemented mode-matching techniques significantly enhance energy extraction efficiency.
• This system represents a significant advancement in high-power pulsed laser technology.