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Quasi-two-level Yb:KYW laser with a volume Bragg grating
Optics Express
|June 25, 2009
Summary
We developed an Ytterbium-doped Potassium Tungstate (Yb:KYW) laser using a volume Bragg grating. This laser achieves 3.6 W output power with a minimal 1.6% quantum defect, enabling scalability to higher powers.
Area of Science:
- Laser Physics
- Solid-State Lasers
- Photonics
Background:
- Yb:KYW lasers are promising for various applications.
- Efficient diode-pumping is crucial for high-power laser systems.
- Minimizing quantum defect reduces thermal loading in lasers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a highly efficient Yb:KYW laser.
- To utilize a volume Bragg grating as an input coupler.
- To achieve low quantum defect and high output power.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal diode-pumping of Yb:KYW crystal at 982 nm.
- Employing a volume Bragg grating for wavelength selection and coupling.
- Characterizing laser output power and spectral properties.
Main Results:
- Achieved 3.6 W output power.
- Demonstrated a very low quantum defect of 1.6%.
- Laser wavelength centered at 998 nm with a 10 GHz bandwidth.
Conclusions:
- The Yb:KYW laser with a volume Bragg grating is highly efficient.
- The low quantum defect suggests significant potential for power scaling.
- Scalability to over 20 W is anticipated without critical thermal issues.
