Triple-Wavelength Lasing with a Stabilized β-LaBSiO₅:Nd³⁺ Crystal

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optoelectronics
• Laser Physics

Background:

• Multi-wavelength lasers, particularly around 1060 nm, are crucial for optoelectronics.
• Neodymium-doped Lanthanum Barium Silicon Oxide (Nd³⁺-doped LaBSiO₅, LBSO) is a promising material for triple-wavelength lasers.
• A significant challenge is the phase transition of LBSO from its high-temperature (β-LBSO) to low-temperature (α-LBSO) phase at 162 °C, hindering crystal growth and stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the stabilization of the β-LBSO phase for Nd³⁺-doped crystals.
• To achieve room-temperature stable Nd³⁺-doped β-LBSO crystals.
• To demonstrate continuous-wave triple-wavelength laser generation using the developed crystal.

Main Methods:

• Studied the effect of Nd³⁺ doping concentration on the phase stability of LBSO.
• Utilized the top-seeded solution method to grow Nd³⁺-doped β-LBSO crystals.
• Characterized the crystal's optical absorption, emission properties, and laser performance.

Main Results:

• Phase transition to α-LBSO was suppressed when Nd³⁺ doping exceeded 6.3 at. %, stabilizing β-LBSO at room temperature.
• A β-LBSO:8%Nd³⁺ crystal (1.8 × 1.8 × 1.8 cm³) was successfully grown, exhibiting strong absorption at 785-815 nm.
• Achieved continuous-wave triple-wavelength laser output at 1047, 1071, and 1092 nm with a maximum power of 235 mW and 12.1% efficiency.

Conclusions:

• Nd³⁺ doping, particularly at concentrations > 6.3 at. %, stabilizes the β-LBSO phase by inducing local disorder in BO₄ tetrahedra.
• The successful growth of β-LBSO:8%Nd³⁺ and its demonstrated triple-wavelength laser performance confirm its potential for optoelectronic applications.
• This work provides a viable route for developing advanced multi-wavelength laser sources based on Nd³⁺-doped LBSO crystals.