Demonstration of a compact, multi-joule, diode-pumped Tm:YLF laser

Area of Science:

• Laser Physics
• Materials Science
• Optics

Background:

• Mid-infrared solid-state lasers are crucial for various scientific and industrial applications.
• Developing high-energy, compact laser systems remains a key challenge in laser technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a diode-pumped thulium-doped yttrium lithium fluoride (Tm:YLF) laser system.
• To investigate the energy storage and extraction capabilities of Tm:YLF for high-power laser generation.

Main Methods:

• A Q-switched cavity-dumped oscillator was designed to generate initial pulses.
• A four-pass power amplifier was employed to amplify the generated pulses.
• The system was diode-pumped to achieve efficient laser operation.

Main Results:

• The Tm:YLF laser system achieved pulse energies up to 3.88 J with a 20 ns pulse duration.
• The oscillator generated 18 mJ pulses, which were subsequently amplified.
• Long-pulse amplifier operation yielded energies as high as 38.1 J.

Conclusions:

• Diode-pumped Tm:YLF exhibits significant energy storage and extraction potential.
• The demonstrated system paves the way for high peak and average power mid-infrared solid-state lasers.
• This advancement supports the development of next-generation laser sources in the mid-infrared spectrum.