Broadband, diode pumped Yb:SiO2 multicomponent glass laser.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optics and Photonics
• Laser Physics

Background:

• Development of advanced laser gain media is crucial for high-energy applications.
• Silica-based glasses offer potential but often require optimization for thermal and optical properties.
• Ytterbium-doped (Yb) glasses are attractive for near-infrared laser operation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the fabrication, spectroscopic properties, and laser performance of a Yb:SiO(2) multicomponent glass.
• To evaluate its potential as an alternative gain medium for high-energy, ultrashort pulse laser systems.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a SiO(2)-Al(2)O(3)-La(2)O(3) glass doped with Ytterbium oxide (Yb2O3).
• Spectroscopic characterization to determine optical properties.
• Laser experiments using a 3.4 mm thick, 0.9 mol.% Yb2O3 doped sample to assess laser performance.

Main Results:

• The Yb:SiO(2) glass exhibited high thermal stress resistance compared to other laser glasses.
• Laser experiments achieved a maximum slope efficiency of 51% and an optical-to-optical efficiency of 42%.
• A broad tuning range from 1010-1090 nm was realized.

Conclusions:

• The developed Yb:SiO(2) multicomponent glass possesses promising laser properties.
• Its straightforward fabrication and high thermal resistance make it a viable alternative gain medium.
• This material shows potential for use in high-energy, ultrashort pulse laser systems.