Efficient laser emission in Ho3+:LiLuF4 grown by micro-Pulling Down method.

Area of Science:

• Solid-state laser physics
• Materials science
• Optical engineering

Background:

• The 2 μm wavelength range is crucial for various applications, including medical procedures and remote sensing.
• Developing efficient laser sources in this range using novel crystal hosts is an active area of research.
• Holmium-doped materials (Ho:LiLuF4) are promising candidates for 2 μm laser emission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the spectroscopic properties of Ho:LiLuF4 crystals.
• To demonstrate efficient laser operation of Ho:LiLuF4 in the 2 μm range.
• To explore the potential of crystals grown via the micro-Pulling Down method for laser applications.

Main Methods:

• Spectroscopic analysis of Ho:LiLuF4 crystals.
• In-band pumping of the Ho:LiLuF4 laser at 1938 nm.
• Characterization of laser performance, including output power, slope efficiency, and threshold.

Main Results:

• The Ho:LiLuF4 laser achieved a maximum output power of 7.1W.
• A high slope efficiency of 41% was recorded.
• The laser operated at a wavelength of 2054.2 nm with a threshold around 5W.

Conclusions:

• This study reports the first laser emission from a fluoride crystal grown by the micro-Pulling Down method in the 2 μm wavelength range.
• The efficient performance of the Ho:LiLuF4 laser demonstrates its potential for practical applications.
• The results highlight the viability of Ho:LiLuF4 as a gain medium for 2 μm lasers.