Efficient laser-diode end-pumped Nd:GGG lasers at 1054 and 1067 nm

Area of Science:

• Lasers and Photonics
• Solid-State Lasers
• Nonlinear Optics

Background:

• Neodymium-doped Gadolinium Gallium Garnet (Nd:GGG) lasers are crucial for various applications.
• Simultaneous multiwavelength laser generation is desirable for advanced applications like terahertz wave production.
• Compact, efficient laser systems are needed for practical implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate efficient and compact laser-diode end-pumped Nd:GGG simultaneous multiwavelength continuous-wave (CW) lasers.
• To investigate single-wavelength operation using a Fabry-Pérot etalon.
• To explore the potential of these lasers for terahertz wave generation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a free-running 30 mm plano-concave laser cavity for Nd:GGG.
• Employed laser-diode end-pumping for efficient energy transfer.
• Inserted a 0.1 mm optical glass plate as a tunable Fabry-Pérot etalon to control wavelength output.

Main Results:

• Achieved simultaneous multiwavelength Nd:GGG CW laser operation at approximately 1059, 1060, and 1062 nm.
• Obtained a maximum output power of 3.92 W with a slope efficiency of 53.6% in multiwavelength mode.
• Demonstrated single-wavelength operation at approximately 1067 nm (1.95 W output, 28.5% slope efficiency) using the etalon.
• Showcased tunable multiwavelength output (e.g., ~1054 or ~1067 nm) by tilting the etalon.

Conclusions:

• Successfully demonstrated efficient and compact laser-diode end-pumped Nd:GGG simultaneous multiwavelength lasers.
• The use of a tunable Fabry-Pérot etalon allows for control over single and multiwavelength operation.
• These Nd:GGG multiwavelength lasers represent a promising source for terahertz wave generation.