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Nonlinear mirror modelocking of a bounce geometry laser
G M Thomas1, A Bäuerle, D J Farrell
1Photonics Group, Blackett Laboratory, Imperial College London, Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BW, UK. gmt03@ic.ac.uk
Optics Express
|July 1, 2010
Summary
We achieved the highest power using nonlinear mirror modelocking (NLM) in a bounce amplifier laser. This NLM technique, using KTP, reached 11.3W with 57ps pulses, rivaling SESAM modelocking.
Area of Science:
- Laser physics
- Nonlinear optics
- Materials science
Background:
- Passive modelocking techniques are crucial for generating ultrashort laser pulses.
- Nonlinear Mirror (NLM) modelocking offers an alternative to saturable absorber mirror (SESAM) modelocking.
- Nd:GdVO(4) lasers are suitable for high-power applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate nonlinear mirror modelocking (NLM) in a Nd:GdVO(4) bounce amplifier.
- Achieve high-power, ultrashort pulse generation using NLM.
- Compare performance using different nonlinear crystals.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Nd:GdVO(4) slab bounce amplifier.
- Implemented nonlinear mirror (NLM) modelocking with a dichroic mirror and nonlinear crystals.
- Employed type-II phase-matched KTP and type-I phase-matched BiBO crystals.
- Operated the laser at 1063nm.
Main Results:
- Achieved 11.3W average power with 57ps pulse duration using type-II KTP.
- Attained 7.1W average power with 5.7ps pulse duration using type-I BiBO.
- Demonstrated NLM as a viable high-power modelocking technique.
Conclusions:
- Nonlinear mirror modelocking (NLM) is a powerful technique for high-power ultrashort pulse generation in bounce amplifier lasers.
- The choice of nonlinear crystal (KTP vs. BiBO) influences pulse duration and output power.
- NLM presents a competitive alternative to SESAM modelocking for demanding laser applications.
