Diode-pumped laser operation of Pr³⁺:Ba(Y_0.8Lu_0.2)₂F₈ in the visible region

We report on, to the best of our knowledge, the first growth, spectroscopy, and laser operation of monocrystalline Ba(Y_0.8Lu_0.2)₂F₈ doped with 1.25 at.% of Pr³⁺ ions (Pr:BYLF). We studied the spectroscopic properties of this material, particularly in comparison with its isomorph Pr³⁺: BaY₂F₈ (Pr:BYF). Under diode-pumped excitation, we achieved continuous-wave laser operation in the orange, red, and deep red regions in the three possible crystal orientations. We obtained considerably improved laser performances and remarkably low passive losses, in comparison with Pr:BYF crystals and other fluorides, indicating that Pr:BYLF is an excellent host material in the visible region.