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2.3 μm Tm3+:YLF mode-locked laser.
Optics Letters
|September 16, 2017
Summary
This study introduces the first passively mode-locked thulium-doped yttrium lithium fluoride (Tm:YLF) laser at 2.3 μm. Stable continuous-wave operation was achieved, demonstrating potential for new laser applications.
Area of Science:
- Laser Physics
- Quantum Optics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Thulium-doped lasers (Tm:YLF) are crucial for mid-infrared applications.
- Passively mode-locking is a key technique for generating ultrashort laser pulses.
- Achieving stable mode-locking at longer wavelengths presents unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first passively mode-locked Tm:YLF laser operating at 2.3 μm.
- To demonstrate stable continuous-wave (CW) mode-locking.
- To characterize the laser's performance, including output power and pulse duration.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Tm:YLF crystal as the gain medium.
- Employed a semiconductor saturable absorber mirror (SESAM) for passive mode-locking.
- Configured the laser for continuous-wave (CW) operation at a 100 MHz repetition rate.
Main Results:
- Successfully achieved stable, continuous-wave (CW) passive mode-locking at 2.3 μm.
- Obtained an average output power of 165 mW.
- Measured a pulse duration of 94 picoseconds (ps).
Conclusions:
- The development of a passively mode-locked Tm:YLF laser at 2.3 μm is a significant advancement.
- The demonstrated stable operation and performance metrics highlight the potential of this laser system.
- This laser opens new avenues for research and applications in the mid-infrared spectral region.
