Cr:LiSr(0.8)Ca(0.2)AlF(6) tunable laser

A new congruent melting compound intermediate between the solid solutions of LiCaAIF(6) and LiSrAlF(6) is reported. When doped with Cr(3+) ion, the new compound (Cr:LiSr(0.8)Ca(0.2)AlF(6)) has demonstrated roomtemperature lasing in the spectral region from 750 to 950 nm. This material has mechanical properties similarto those of Cr:LiCaAlF(6) and a broadband laser tuning range similar to that of Cr:LiSrAlF(6). Long-pulse, flash-lamp-pumped lasing with 1.25% overall efficiency is reported by using a rod cut from an earlier boule.