80-W single-frequency Innoslab µs-amplifier at 1319 nm with high efficiency

Area of Science:

• Laser physics
• Materials science

Background:

• Nd:YAG lasers are crucial for various applications.
• Developing high-power, single-frequency laser amplifiers is an ongoing challenge.
• Innoslab architecture offers advantages for thermal management and scalability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a single-frequency quasi-continuous-wave partially end-pumped slab (Innoslab) laser amplifier at 1319 nm.
• To achieve high output power and efficiency with excellent beam quality.
• To report the first Nd:YAG Innoslab amplifier at 1319 nm with these performance metrics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a single-frequency all-fiber seed laser.
• Employed a partially end-pumped Innoslab architecture.
• Operated at a 1319 nm wavelength with a 500 Hz repetition rate.

Main Results:

• Amplified seed laser to a maximum average power of 80.1 W.
• Achieved 16.1% optical-optical efficiency with 478 W absorbed pump power.
• Maintained power stability of 0.52% over 10 minutes.
• Obtained beam quality factors (M²) of 1.3 in both directions.
• Delivered output pulses of 131 µs width.

Conclusions:

• Successfully demonstrated a high-power, single-frequency Nd:YAG Innoslab laser amplifier at 1319 nm.
• The amplifier exhibits high output power, efficiency, and excellent beam quality.
• This work represents a significant advancement in laser amplifier technology for demanding applications.