A reflecting Pockels cell with aperture scalable for high average power multipass amplifier systems

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Laser Technology
• Materials Science

Background:

• High average power multi-pass amplifier systems face limitations with conventional Pockels cells, including aperture restrictions and detrimental thermo-effects.
• Pockels cells are crucial for optical isolation and controlling the number of passes in laser systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and demonstrate a novel Reflecting Pockels Cell (RPC) designed to overcome the limitations of traditional Pockels cells.
• To provide a scalable solution with improved thermal management and aperture for high-power laser applications.

Main Methods:

• Development of a longitudinally excited KD*P Reflecting Pockels Cell (RPC).
• Utilized a matched discharge chamber and copper plate as electrodes for longitudinal conduction cooling of the electro-optic crystal.
• Device driven by a single low-voltage pulse.

Main Results:

• The RPC features a 40 mm x 40 mm clear aperture, with potential for scaling to larger sizes.
• Achieved excellent switching efficiency and a high static extinction ratio.
• Demonstrated negligible thermo-effects, indicating effective thermal management.

Conclusions:

• The novel Reflecting Pockels Cell (RPC) effectively addresses aperture and thermal management challenges in high average power laser systems.
• The RPC offers a scalable, efficient, and robust solution for advanced laser amplifier designs.