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2 mJ room temperature Fe:CdTe laser tunable from 5.1 to 6.3 μm
Optics Letters
|November 16, 2019
Summary
This study demonstrates room temperature operation of a novel iron-doped cadmium telluride (Fe:CdTe) laser. The laser achieved significant output energy and spectral tuning, marking a breakthrough for Fe2+:II-VI lasers.
Area of Science:
- Laser Physics
- Solid-State Materials
- Infrared Optics
Background:
- Development of efficient mid-infrared lasers is crucial for various applications.
- Iron-doped II-VI semiconductors offer potential for broadly tunable laser sources.
- Room temperature (RT) operation of such lasers remains a significant challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate room temperature (RT) operation of a Fe:CdTe laser.
- To characterize the laser's output energy, slope efficiency, and spectral tuning range.
- To investigate the potential of Fe:CdTe as a broadly tunable RT laser source.
Main Methods:
- Pumping a Fe:CdTe laser using a Q-switched 2.94 μm Er:Y3Al2(AlO4)3 laser.
- Measuring output energy and slope efficiency.
- Utilizing an intracavity prism for spectral tuning.
- Measuring the upper laser level lifetime at RT.
Main Results:
- Achieved RT operation of the Fe:CdTe laser.
- Produced 2 mJ output energy at 5.55 μm with 16% slope efficiency.
- Demonstrated spectral tuning from 5.1–6.3 μm, the longest achieved for Fe2+:II-VI lasers.
- Measured upper laser level lifetime of 530 ns at RT.
Conclusions:
- Fe:CdTe is a viable gain medium for RT mid-infrared laser operation.
- The demonstrated tuning range highlights the potential for broadband spectroscopy and other applications.
- Further research can optimize performance and explore other Fe-doped II-VI materials.
