Temperature dependence of quasi-three level laser transition for long pulse Nd:YAG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bidin, Noriah; Pourmand, Seyed Ebrahim; Sidi Ahmad, Muhamad Fakaruddin; Khrisnan, Ganesan; Mohd Taib, Nur Athirah; Nadia Adnan, Nurul; Bakhtiar, Hazri

2013-02-01

The influence of temperature and pumping energy on stimulated emission cross section and the laser output of quasi-three level laser transition are reported. Flashlamp is used to pump Nd:YAG laser rod. Distilled water is mixed with ethylene glycol to vary the temperature of the cooling system between -30 and 60 °C. The capacitor voltage of flashlamp driver is verified to manipulate the input energy within the range of 10-70 J. The line of interest in quasi-three level laser comprised of 938.5 and 946 nm. The stimulated emission cross section of both lines is found to be inversely proportional to the temperature but directly proportional to the input energy. This is attributed from thermal broadening effect. The changes of stimulated emission cross section and the output laser with respect to the temperature and input energy on line 946 nm are realized to be more dominant in comparison to 938.5 nm.

Segmented amplifier configurations for laser amplifier

DOEpatents

Hagen, Wilhelm F.

1979-01-01

An amplifier system for high power lasers, the system comprising a compact array of segments which (1) preserves high, large signal gain with improved pumping efficiency and (2) allows the total amplifier length to be shortened by as much as one order of magnitude. The system uses a three dimensional array of segments, with the plane of each segment being oriented at substantially the amplifier medium Brewster angle relative to the incident laser beam and with one or more linear arrays of flashlamps positioned between adjacent rows of amplifier segments, with the plane of the linear array of flashlamps being substantially parallel to the beam propagation direction.

HO:LULF and HO:LULF Laser Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barnes, Norman P. (Inventor); Morrison, Clyde A. (Inventor); Filer, Elizabeth D. (Inventor); Jani, Mahendra G. (Inventor); Murray, Keith E. (Inventor); Lockard, George E. (Inventor)

1998-01-01

A laser host material LULF (LuLiF4) is doped with holmium (Ho) and thulium (Tm) to produce a new laser material that is capable of laser light production in the vicinity of 2 microns. The material provides an advantage in efficiency over conventional Ho lasers because the LULF host material allows for decreased threshold and upconversion over such hosts as YAG and YLF. The addition of Tm allows for pumping by commonly available GaAlAs laser diodes. For use with flashlamp pumping, erbium (Er) may be added as an additional dopant. For further upconversion reduction, the Tm can be eliminated and the Ho can be directly pumped.

PHYSICAL EFFECTS OCCURRING DURING GENERATION AND AMPLIFICATION OF LASER RADIATION: Enhancement of the efficiency of flashlamp-pumped lasers by conversion of the spectral composition of the exciting radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levin, M. B.; Cherkasov, A. S.

1989-02-01

An account is given of the published investigations of ways of increasing the efficiency of flashlamp-pumped lasers by frequency conversion of the exciting radiation with the aid of luminescent filters. An analysis is made of the method for calculating the efficiency of luminescent filters absorbing short-wavelength radiation and reemitting it in the absorption region of the active medium. It is shown that the use of rhodamine 6G and other phosphors as luminescent filters can double the efficiency of neodymium glass lasers, increase the efficiency of YAG:Nd3+ lasers by a factor of 1.5, and improve the efficiency of lasers activated with Ti3+ by more than an order of magnitude. The use of luminescent filters in dye lasers can double the efficiency and make it possible to reach average output powers of hundreds of watts. Promising materials for luminescent filters are considered and margins for increasing their efficiency are analyzed. The main results are reported of studies of plasma pump-spectrum converters and it is shown that promising results can be expected by combining luminescent filters and an optimized plasma converter system in an "optical boiler" enclosure.

Diode pumped solid-state laser oscillators for spectroscopic applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Byer, R. L.; Basu, S.; Fan, T. Y.; Kozlovsky, W. J.; Nabors, C. D.; Nilsson, A.; Huber, G.

1987-01-01

The rapid improvement in diode laser pump sources has led to the recent progress in diode laser pumped solid state lasers. To date, electrical efficiencies of greater than 10 percent were demonstrated. As diode laser costs decrease with increased production volume, diode laser and diode laser array pumped solid state lasers will replace the traditional flashlamp pumped Nd:YAG laser sources. The use of laser diode array pumping of slab geometry lasers will allow efficient, high peak and average power solid state laser sources to be developed. Perhaps the greatest impact of diode laser pumped solid state lasers will be in spectroscopic applications of miniature, monolithic devices. Single-stripe diode-pumped operation of a continuous-wave 946 nm Nd:YAG laser with less than 10 m/w threshold was demonstrated. A slope efficiency of 16 percent near threshold was shown with a projected slope efficiency well above a threshold of 34 percent based on results under Rhodamine 6G dye-laser pumping. Nonlinear crystals for second-harmonic generation of this source were evaluated. The KNbO3 and periodically poled LiNbO3 appear to be the most promising.

Photophysical properties, photodegradation characteristics, and lasing action for coumarin dye C540A in polymeric media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, Guilford, II; Huang, Zhennian; Pacheco, Dennis P., Jr.; Russell, Jeffrey A.

2004-07-01

Tunable solid-state dye lasers operating in the blue-green spectral region are attractive for a variety of applications. An important consideration in assessing the viability of this technology is the service life of the gain medium, which is presently limited by dye photodegradation. In this study, solid polymeric samples consisting of the coumarin dye C540A in modified PMMA were subjected to controlled photodegradation tests. The excitation laser was a flashlamp-pumped dye laser operating at 440 nm with a pulse duration of 1 μs. A complementary set of data was obtained for dye in solution phase for comparison purposes. Photophysical properties of C540A in water solution of polymethacrylic acid (PMAA) have been investigated with a view to assess the suitability of the sequestering polymer (PMAA) as an effective additive to facilitate use of a water medium for highly efficient blue-green dye lasers. Lasing action of C540A in aqueous PMAA has been realized using flashlamp-pumped laser system, yielding excellent laser efficiencies superior to that achieved in ethanolic solutions with the same dye. Laser characterization of dye in media included measurement of laser threshold, slope efficiency, pulse duration and output wavelength.

Superradiant laser emission from rhodamine 6G and rhodamine B using a coaxial flashpump.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mumola, P. B.

1972-01-01

Superradiant laser emission has been observed from ethanol solutions of rhodamine 6G and rhodamine B using a coaxial flashlamp pump. The dependence of input threshold energy on dye concentration is examined. The possibility of exciting other dyes to superradiance is discussed.

A Plasma Ultraviolet Source for Short Wavelength Lasers.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-04-15

plasma focus (DPF) device was evaluated for the feasibility of blue-green and near ultraviolet laser pumping. As the result of optimizing the operating conditions of DPF and laser system, the maximum untuned laser output exceeded 4.0mJ corresponding to the energy density 8.3J/liter which is much higher than the typical flashlamp dye laser. The spectral irradiance of DPF at the absorption bands for LD390 and LD490 were 5.5W/sq cm-nm, 0.3W.sq cm-nm, respectively. Due to the lower pump power of DPF at 355nm than the threshold of LD390, the laser pumping of LD390 dye was not

Studies of new media radiation induced laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Han, K. S.; Shiu, Y. J.; Raju, S. R.; Hwang, I. H.; Tabibi, B.

1984-01-01

Various lasants were investigated especially, 2-iodohepafluoropropane (i-C3F7I) for the direct solar pumped lasers. Optical pumping of iodine laser was achieved using a small flashlamp. Using i-C3F7I as a laser gain medium, threshold inversion density, small signal gain, and laser performance at the elevated temperature were measured. The experimental results and analysis are presented. The iodine laser kinetics of the C3F7I and IBr system were numerically simulated. The concept of a direct solar-pumped laser amplifier using (i-C3F7I) as the laser material was evaluated and several kinetic coefficients for i-C3F7I laser system were reexamined. The results are discussed.

System Testing and Performance Characterization of the LITE Laser Transmitter Module at NASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cimolino, Marc C.; Petros, Mulugeta

1992-01-01

The Laser Transmitter Module (LTM) is a three-color Q-switched flashlamp pumped Nd:YAG laser. The original design concept was to package commercially available optics and flashlamp electronics for spaceflight with a power consumption goal of 2200 W and a weight goal of 600 lbs. The optical output was to exceed 200 mJ of IR, 400 mJ of green, and 150 mJ of UV per pulse at 10 Hz. The new space qualified laser exceeds the optical output requirements by 188 percent, 50 percent, and 13 percent in the UR, green, and UV respectively. This output needs only 1500 W at a weight of only 500 lbs. The LTM was delivered to the NASA Langley Research Center in December 1991. Optical characterization is now being completed.

Research on the liquid coolant applied in the high repetition rate slab amplifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Bingyan; Li, Yangshuai; Zhang, Panzheng; Wang, Li; Zhang, Yanli; Feng, Tao; Zhou, Qiong; Liu, Qiang; Li, Haiyuan; Zhang, Xu; Zhou, Shenlei; Ma, Weixin; Zhu, Jian; Zhu, Jianqiang

2018-03-01

High repetition rate slab amplifier (HRRSA) is extraordinarily indispensable for the future fusion power plant, ultra-short laser, laser weapon, and so on. Thermal controlling is the decisive factor for the repetition rate and the output energy of the slab amplifier. For larger clear aperture HRRSA, flash-lamp pumped slab amplifier based on neodymium phosphate glass (Nd:glass) is chosen with the liquid cooling. The liquid coolant circulates across the Nd:glass and takes off the thermal induced in the pumping process. A novel liquid coolant (Series A) whose refractive index is the same with Nd:glass is proposed to alleviate the wavefront distortion induced by thermal. The chemical stability of the liquid coolant under high energy flash-lamp irradiation with 200 shots and under the irradiation of a 1053nm laser with 19 hours and 37 hours are experimented. The results show that the chemical stability of the liquid coolant is stable under irradiation.

Studies of new media radiation induced laser. Final Report, 1 February 1979-30 April 1984

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Han, K.S.; Shiu, Y.J.; Raju, S.R.

Various lasants were investigated especially, 2-iodohepafluoropropane (i-C3F7I) for the direct solar pumped lasers. Optical pumping of iodine laser was achieved using a small flashlamp. Using i-C3F7I as a laser gain medium, threshold inversion density, small signal gain, and laser performance at the elevated temperature were measured. The experimental results and analysis are presented. The iodine laser kinetics of the C3F7I and IBr system were numerically simulated. The concept of a direct solar-pumped laser amplifier using (i-C3F7I) as the laser material was evaluated and several kinetic coefficients for i-C3F7I laser system were reexamined. The results are discussed.

Selective removal of natural caries lesions from dentin and tooth occlusal surfaces using a diode-pumped Er:YAG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jew, Jamison; Chan, Kenneth H.; Darling, Cynthia L.; Fried, Daniel

2017-02-01

Selective removal of caries lesions with high precision is best accomplished using lasers operating at high pulse repetition rates utilizing small spot sizes. Conventional flash-lamp pumped Er:YAG lasers are poorly suited for this purpose, but new diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) Er:YAG lasers have become available operating at high pulse repetition rates. Microradiography was used to determine the mineral content of the demineralized dentin of 200-μm thick sections with natural caries lesions prior to laser ablation. The purpose of this study was to explore the use of a DPSS Er:YAG laser for the selective removal of demineralized dentin and natural occlusal lesions on extracted teeth.

Recent advance to 3 × 10(-5) rad near diffraction-limited beam divergence of dye laser with transverse-discharge flash-lamp pumping.

PubMed

Trusov, K K

1994-02-20

A new experimental setup of a Rhodamine 6G dye laser with a transverse-discharge flash-lamp-pumping system is presented. It differs from a previous setup [Sov. J. Quantum Electron. 16, 468-471 (1989)] in that it has a larger laser beam aperture (32 mm) and higher pumping energy (1 kJ), which made it possible to test the scalability and reach near diffraction-limited laser beam divergence of 3 × 10(-5) rad FWHM at beam energy 1.4 J. The effect of spectral dispersion in the active medium and of other optical elements on the beam divergence is also discussed.

Direct solar-pumped iodine laser amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Han, Kwang S.; Hwang, In Heon

1990-01-01

The optimum conditions of a solar pumped iodine laser are found in this research for the case of a continuous wave operation and a pulsed operation. The optimum product of the pressure(p) inside the laser tube and the tube diameter(d) was pd=40 approx. 50 torr-cm on the contrary to the case of a high intensity flashlamp pumped iodine laser where the optimum value of the product is known to be pd=150 torr-cm. The pressure-diameter product is less than 1/3 of that of the high power iodine laser. During the research period, various laser materials were also studied for solar pumping. Among the laser materials, Nd:YAG is found to have the lowest laser threshold pumping intensity of about 200 solar constant. The Rhodamine 6G was also tested as the solar pumped laser material. The threshold pumping power was measured to be about 20,000 solar constant. The amplification experiment for a continuously pumped iodine laser amplifier was performed using Vortek solar simulator and the amplification factors were measured for single pass amplification and triple pass amplification of the 15 cm long amplifier tube. The amplification of 5 was obtained for the triple pass amplification.

Dye laser traveling wave amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davidson, F.; Hohman, J.

1984-01-01

A flashlamp pumped dye laser suitable for use as a single stage amplifier is described. Particular emphasis is placed on the efforts to increase output pulse energy and improve the temporal profile of the injected pulse. By using high power thin film polarizers, output energies reach from 4 to 45 mJ. Various dispersive elements are used to develop an amplified pulse with an extremely clean temporal profile.

New, efficient, room temperature mid-infrared laser at 3.9 mu m in holmium:barium yttrium fluoride and visible praseodymium:lithium yttrium fluoride laser for holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tabirian, Anna Murazian

This dissertation describes a series of experiments and theoretical studies, which led to the development of two new solid state laser systems: efficient, room temperature mid-infrared solid state laser at 3.9 μm in Ho 3+ doped BaY2F8 and visible Pr:LiYF4 laser at 640 mn for holography. The 3.9 μm laser wavelength matches the peak of mid-IR atmospheric transmission window, which makes it very important for multiple applications such as remote sensing, imaging, IR countermeasures, eye-safe lidars and environmental agent detection. We present the results of spectroscopic evaluations and numerical modeling of energy transfer processes between rare earth ions of Ho3+ doped in two host laser materials: BaY2F8 and LiYF 4. The 3.9 μm laser is based on transition with upper laser lifetime considerably shorter than lower level lifetime, which in general leads to self-terminating laser action in the cw mode or at high repetition rates. Therefore, three different pumping and lasing schemes, that could allow overcoming these limitations have been suggested and studied. First, cascade laser action at 1.4 μm and 3.9 μm was achieved with low thresholds and near-theoretical quantum efficiency in Ho3+ doped BaY2F8 pumped at 532 nm by a Q- switched frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser. Next, the feasibility of achieving 3.9 μm laser with cw resonant cascade pumping at 750 mn by a Ti:Sapphire laser was studied. New energy transfer process, such as upconversion from terminal level of the 3.9 μm laser was observed in high concentration Ho3+ doped BaY2F 8. Finally, we proposed to use high-energy flashlamp pumped tunable Cr:LiSAF laser operating in long pulse regime for the direct pumping of the upper level of the 3.9 μm laser. Pulsed laser oscillation at 3.9 μm is demonstrated in Ho3+ doped BaY2F8 with low threshold of 3 mJ and a slope efficiency of 14.5% with maximal energy of 30 mJ. The second part of the thesis describes the design and the development of the visible Pr:LiYF4 laser for holography at 640 nm resonantly pumped by the frequency-doubled flashlamp pumped tunable Cr:LiSAF laser at 444 nm.

Quantum Electronics in the UK. A National-Survey Conference.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-10-30

flashlamp pumped chromium action, including transitions in dopants doped gadolinium /scandium/gallium garnet which have not previously shown laser lasers...frac- factors that limit performance. They ture. The Southampton scientists fabri - concluded that excited state absorption, cated the fibers by a...topics such as transverse power on the long wavelength side of a switching waves and cross-talk of bista- Fabry -Perot resonance peak at 844 nm, ble

Laser systems for the combustion research facility - Diana

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Miller, C.K.; Lavasek, J.W.; Jones, E.D.

1982-03-01

A 5-Joule/pulse, 1.8-..mu..s-pulse-width, 10-ppS flashlamp-pumped tunable-dye-laser system, called Diana, has been built for use in experiments to be performed at the Combustion Research Facility, Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore. Design specifications for the system and details of construction are described, and it is noted that performance of the laser meets or exceeds all design criteria. Areas for further performance improvements are discussed, and updates are suggested to enhance system usefulness.

Numerical simulation of a battlefield Nd:YAG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henriksson, Markus; Sjoqvist, Lars; Uhrwing, Thomas

2005-11-01

A numeric model has been developed to identify the critical components and parameters in improving the output beam quality of a flashlamp pumped Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with a folded Porro-prism resonator and polarization output coupling. The heating of the laser material and accompanying thermo-optical effects are calculated using the finite element partial differential equations package FEMLAB allowing arbitrary geometries and time distributions. The laser gain and the cavity are modeled with the physical optics simulation code GLAD including effects such as gain profile, thermal lensing and stress-induced birefringence, the Pockels cell rise-time and component aberrations. The model is intended to optimize the pumping process of an OPO providing radiation to be used for ranging, imaging or optical countermeasures.

Two Wavelength Ti:sapphire Laser for Ozone DIAL Measurements from Aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Situ, Wen; DeYoung, Russel J.

1998-01-01

Laser remote sensing of ozone from aircraft has proven to be a valuable technique for understanding the distribution and dynamics of ozone in the atmosphere. Presently the differential absorption lidar (DIAL) technique, using dual ND:YAG lasers that are doubled to pump dye lasers which in turn are doubled into the UV for the "on" and "off' line lasers, is used on either the NASA DC-8 or P-3 aircraft. Typically, the laser output for each line is 40-mJ and this is split into two beams, one looking up and the other downward, each beam having about 20-mJ. The residual ND:YAG (1.06 micron) and dye laser energies are also transmitted to obtain information on the atmospheric aerosols. While this system has operated well, there are several system characteristics that make the system less than ideal for aircraft operations. The system, which uses separate "on" and "off" line lasers, is quite large and massive requiring valuable aircraft volume and weight. The dye slowly degrades with time requiring replacement. The laser complexity requires a number of technical people to maintain the system performance. There is also the future interest in deploying an ozone DIAL system in an Unpiloted Atmospheric Vehicle (UAV) which would require a total payload mass of less than 150 kg and power requirement of less than 1500 W. A laser technology has emerged that could potentially provide significant enhancements over the present ozone DIAL system. The flashlamp pumped Ti:sapphire laser system is an emerging technology that could reduce the mass and volume over the present system and also provide a system with fewer conversion steps, reducing system complexity. This paper will discuss preliminary results from a flashlamp-pumped Ti:sapphire laser constructed as a radiation source for a UV DIAL system to measure ozone.

Method and apparatus for generating high power laser pulses in the two to six micron wavelength range

DOEpatents

MacPherson, David C.; Nelson, Loren D.; O'Brien, Martin J.

1996-01-01

Apparatus performs a method of generating one or more output laser pulses in a range of 2 to 6 microns. When a plurality of the output laser pulses are generated, a first output pulse has any selected wavelength within the range and a second output pulse is temporally closely spaced relative to the first output pulse and has a chosen wavelength differing from the selected wavelength. An oscillator laser cavity is provided with a tunable oscillator rod capable of generating initial laser pulses within a range of from 750 to 1000 nm, and a tuning element is coupled to the rod. A flashlamp is operable to pump the rod. For two pulse operation, the flashlamp has a given duration. A Q-switch provides the initial laser pulses upon operation of the tuning element and the flashlamp. A Raman device coupled to the rod shifts the wavelength of such initial laser pulse into the range of from 2 to 6 microns to form the output laser pulse having a wavelength within the range. For multiple pulses, a controller causes the Q-switch to provide first and second ones of the initial laser pulses, spaced by a time interval less than the given duration. Also, a selector coupled to the tuning element is operable within such duration to successively select the wavelength of the first output pulse and the chosen wavelength of the second initial pulse. The Raman device is responsive to each of the initial light pulses to generate radiation at first and second Stokes wavelengths, each of said the output laser pulses being radiation at the second Stokes wavelength.

Method and apparatus for generating high power laser pulses in the two to six micron wavelength range

DOEpatents

MacPherson, D.C.; Nelson, L.D.; O`Brien, M.J.

1996-12-10

Apparatus performs a method of generating one or more output laser pulses in a range of 2 to 6 microns. When a plurality of the output laser pulses are generated, a first output pulse has any selected wavelength within the range and a second output pulse is temporally closely spaced relative to the first output pulse and has a chosen wavelength differing from the selected wavelength. An oscillator laser cavity is provided with a tunable oscillator rod capable of generating initial laser pulses within a range of from 750 to 1000 nm, and a tuning element is coupled to the rod. A flashlamp is operable to pump the rod. For two pulse operation, the flashlamp has a given duration. A Q-switch provides the initial laser pulses upon operation of the tuning element and the flashlamp. A Raman device coupled to the rod shifts the wavelength of such initial laser pulse into the range of from 2 to 6 microns to form the output laser pulse having a wavelength within the range. For multiple pulses, a controller causes the Q-switch to provide first and second ones of the initial laser pulses, spaced by a time interval less than the given duration. Also, a selector coupled to the tuning element is operable within such duration to successively select the wavelength of the first output pulse and the chosen wavelength of the second initial pulse. The Raman device is responsive to each of the initial light pulses to generate radiation at first and second Stokes wavelengths, each of said the output laser pulses being radiation at the second Stokes wavelength. 30 figs.

A comparison of Doppler lidar wind sensors for Earth-orbit global measurement applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Menzies, Robert T.

1985-01-01

Now, there are four Doppler lidar configurations which are being promoted for the measurement of tropospheric winds: (1) the coherent CO2 Lidar, operating in the 9 micrometer region using a pulsed, atmospheric pressure CO2 gas discharge laser transmitter, and heterodyne detection; (2) the coherent Neodymium doped YAG or Glass Lidar, operating at 1.06 micrometers, using flashlamp or diode laser optical pumping of the solid state laser medium, and heterodyne detection; (3) the Neodymium doped YAG/Glass Lidar, operating at the doubled frequency (at 530 nm wavelength), again using flashlamp or diode laser pumping of the laser transmitter, and using a high resolution tandem Fabry-Perot filter and direct detection; and (4) the Raman shifted Xenon Chloride Lidar, operating at 350 nm wavelength, using a pulsed, atmospheric pressure XeCl gas discharge laser transmitter at 308 nm, Raman shifted in a high pressure hydrogen cell to 350 nm in order to avoid strong stratospheric ozone absorption, also using a high resolution tandem Fabry-Perot filter and direct detection. Comparisons of these four systems can include many factors and tradeoffs. The major portion of this comparison is devoted to efficiency. Efficiency comparisons are made by estimating the number of transmitted photons required for a single pulse wind velocity estimate of + or - 1 m/s accuracy in the middle troposphere, from an altitude of 800 km, which is assured to be reasonable for a polar orbiting platform.

Update on flashlamp pumped pulsed dye laser treatment for port wine stains (capillary malformation) patients

PubMed Central

Hsiao, Yen-Chang; Chang, Cheng-Jen

2011-01-01

Background and Aims: Currently, the method of choice for the treatment of port-wine stains is laser photocoagulation. Because of evolving treatment options, it is no longer enough for port-wine stains merely to be lightened through laser treatment. The best course of management consists of the most appropriate laser that will produce the most complete clearing of a lesion in the fewest treatment sessions with the least morbidity. The goal is generally accomplished with the use of yellow-light lasers. Materials (Subjects) and Methods: Absorption of laser energy by melanin causes localized heating in the epidermis, which may, if not controlled, produce permanent complications such as hypertrophic scarring or dyspigmentation. Refinements of the results can be achieved by using the flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser (FLPDL) in conjunction with the cryogen spray cooling (CSC) system. In our related studies, the infrared thermal image instrument is used for doctors in determining the optimum laser light dosage and preventing the side effects caused by FLPDL. Topic application of angiogenesis inhibitor (Imiquimod) in conjunction with pulsed dye laser treatment for the PWS patients has been assessed for improvement of FLPDL treatment. Results: We present the clinical effect of FLPDL, and the efficacy and safety of cooled laser treatment of PWS birthmarks. Our clinical outcome in the laser treatment of patients with PWS has been achieved to maximize thermal impact on targeted vessels, while minimizing adverse complications. Conclusions: CSC in conjunction with FLPDL can improve the treatment of PWS. The infrared image instrument is helpful for doctors in determining the optimum laser light dosage. Topic application of angiogenesis inhibitor (Imiquimod) in conjunction with laser treatment for the PWS patients is promising in the near future. PMID:24155536

Direct solar-pumped iodine laser amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Han, Kwang S.; Hwang, In Heon; Kim, Khong Hon; Stock, Larry V.

1988-01-01

A XeCl laser pumped iodine laser oscillator was developed which will be incorporated into the Master Oscillator Power Amplifier (MOPA) system. The developed XeCl laser produces output energy of about 60 mJ per pulse. The pulse duration was about 10 nsec. The kinetic model for the solar-pumped laser was refined and the algorithm for the calculation of a set of rate equations was improved to increase the accuracy and the efficiency of the calculation. The improved algorithm was applied to explain the existing experimental data taken from a flashlamp pumped iodine laser for three kinds of lasants, i-C3F7I, n-C4F9I, and t-C4F9I. Various solid laser materials were evaluated for solar-pumping. The materials studied were Nd:YAG, Nd:YLF, and Cr:Nd:GSGG crystals. The slope efficiency of 0.17 percent was measured for the Nd:YLF near the threshold pump intensity which was 211 solar constants (29W/sq cm). The threshold pump intensity of the Nd:YAG was measured to be 236 solar constants (32W/sq cm) and the near-threshold slope efficiency was 0.12 percent. True CW laser operation of Cr:Nd:GSGG was possible only at pump intensities less than or equal to 1,500 solar constants (203 W/sq cm). This fact was attributed to the high thermal focusing effect of the Cr:Nd:GSGG rod.

The Construction and Calibration of a LADAR (Laser Detection and Ranging) Cross-Section Measurement Range

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-12-01

resonator optics consist of two porro prisms which are oriented 900 from one another about the cavity’s optical axis. In other words, the roof edges of each... prism are perpendicular to one another. The Nd:YAG laser rod measures 5 mm in diameter by 75 mm long and is optically pumped by a Xenon flashlamp. Q...Switching of the laser is performed by a Pockels Cell. A dielectric polarizer is sealed between two right angle prisms which are joined symetrically

Solid State Research.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-02-15

Diode Lasers 10 - 3. MATERIALS RESEARCH 15 3.1 Role of Oxygen in Zone-Melting Recrystallization of Si Films on Si0 2 -Coated Si Substrates 15 3.2 Triple... Film that Has Been Etch-Delineated to Show Sub- ndaries. Upper Graphite Heater Was Scanned in Direction from top to Bottom of Micrograph. 15 3-2...Operation at 1060 nm with a 5-percent differential power efficiency has been obtained from a flashlamp-pumped laser rod of the sensitized garnet Nd:Cr:Gd 3Sc

Passive mode locking of 2.09 microm Cr,Tm,Ho:Y3Sc2Al3O12 laser using PbS quantum-dot-doped glass.

PubMed

Denisov, Igor A; Skoptsov, Nikolai A; Gaponenko, Maxim S; Malyarevich, Alexander M; Yumashev, Konstantin V; Lipovskii, Andrei A

2009-11-01

Passive Q-switched mode locking of a 2.09 microm flashlamp-pumped Cr(3+),Tm(3+),Ho(3+):Y(3)Sc(2)Al(3)O(12) laser by use of a phosphate glass doped with PbS quantum dots of 5 nm in radius was demonstrated. Mode-locked pulses of 290 ps in duration and up to 0.5 mJ in energy were registered.

Solid-state coherent laser radar wind shear measuring systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huffaker, R. Milton

1992-01-01

Coherent Technologies, Inc. (CTI) was established in 1984 to engage in the development of coherent laser radar systems and subsystems with applications in atmospheric remote sensing, and in target tracking, ranging and imaging. CTI focuses its capabilities in three major areas: (1) theoretical performance and design of coherent laser radar system; (2) development of coherent laser radar systems for government agencies such as DoD and NASA; and (3) development of coherent laser radar systems for commercial markets. The topics addressed are: (1) 1.06 micron solid-state coherent laser radar system; (2) wind measurement using 1.06 micron system; and flashlamp-pumped 2.09 micron solid-state coherent laser radar system.

All-Solid-State UV Transmitter Development for Ozone Sensing Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prasad, Narasimha S.; Singh, Upendra N.; Armstrong, Darrell Jr.

2009-01-01

In this paper, recent progress made in the development of an all-solid-state UV transmitter suitable for ozone sensing applications from space based platforms is discussed. A nonlinear optics based UV setup based on Rotated Image Singly Resonant Twisted Rectangle (RISTRA) optical parametric oscillator (OPO) module was effectively coupled to a diode pumped, single longitudinal mode, conductively cooled, short-pulsed, high-energy Nd:YAG laser operating at 1064 nm with 50 Hz PRF. An estimated 10 mJ/pulse with 10% conversion efficiency at 320 nm has been demonstrated limited only by the pump pulse spatial profile. The current arrangement has the potential for obtaining greater than 200 mJ/pulse. Previously, using a flash-lamp pumped Nd:YAG laser with round, top-hat profile, up to 24% IR-UV conversion efficiency was achieved with the same UV module. Efforts are underway to increase the IR-UV conversion efficiency of the all solid-state setup by modifying the pump laser spatial profile along with incorporating improved OPO crystals.

High power diode lasers for solid-state laser pumps

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linden, Kurt J.; Mcdonnell, Patrick N.

1994-01-01

The development and commercial application of high power diode laser arrays for use as solid-state laser pumps is described. Such solid-state laser pumps are significantly more efficient and reliable than conventional flash-lamps. This paper describes the design and fabrication of diode lasers emitting in the 780 - 900 nm spectral region, and discusses their performance and reliability. Typical measured performance parameters include electrical-to-optical power conversion efficiencies of 50 percent, narrow-band spectral emission of 2 to 3 nm FWHM, pulsed output power levels of 50 watts/bar with reliability values of over 2 billion shots to date (tests to be terminated after 10 billion shots), and reliable operation to pulse lengths of 1 ms. Pulse lengths up to 5 ms have been demonstrated at derated power levels, and CW performance at various power levels has been evaluated in a 'bar-in-groove' laser package. These high-power 1-cm stacked-bar arrays are now being manufactured for OEM use. Individual diode laser bars, ready for package-mounting by OEM customers, are being sold as commodity items. Commercial and medical applications of these laser arrays include solid-state laser pumping for metal-working, cutting, industrial measurement and control, ranging, wind-shear/atmospheric turbulence detection, X-ray generation, materials surface cleaning, microsurgery, ophthalmology, dermatology, and dental procedures.

Comparison of different laser systems in the treatment of hypertrophic and atrophic scars and keloids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scharschmidt, D.; Algermissen, Bernd; Willms-Jones, J.-C.; Philipp, Carsten M.; Berlien, Hans-Peter

1997-12-01

Different laser systems and techniques are used for the treatment of hypertrophic scars, keloids and acne scars. Significant criteria in selecting a suitable laser system are the scar's vascularization, age and diameter. Flashlamp- pumped dye-lasers, CO2-lasers with scanner, Argon and Nd:YAG-lasers are used. Telangiectatic scars respond well to argon lasers, erythematous scars and keloids to dye-laser treatment. Using interstitial Nd:YAG-laser vaporization, scars with a cross-section over 1 cm can generally be reduced. For the treatment of atrophic and acne scars good cosmetic results are achieved with a CO2-laser/scanner system, which allows a precise ablation of the upper dermis with low risk of side-effects.

Evaluation of agreement among dermatologists in the assessment of the color of port wine stains and their clearance after treatment with the flashlamp-pumped dye laser.

PubMed

Pérez, B; Abraira, V; Núñez, M; Boixeda, P; Perez Corral, F; Ledo, A

1997-01-01

Color classification and its subjective clearance evaluation in response to treatment are essential in the management of patients with port wine stains (PWS). But color perception by physicians is not an objective measurement so that it can change among observers. Agreement among physicians is essential for the reliability of the color classification and the clinical assessment of the response to laser treatment. The purpose of our study was to determine the reliability of the clinical color classification of port wine stains and of their color change or clearance in response to laser treatment. The study was not designed to evaluate the outcome of laser treatment in PWS or the factors that could predict the final response. We used the kappa index to evaluate the proportion of agreement in color and clearance perception among dermatologists. Six dermatologists classified the initial color of PWS in 80 patients. Three of them also assessed the amount of clearance achieved after treatment with the flashlamp-pumped dye laser. These three dermatologists were usually dedicated to treat patients with PWS, while the other three were not. The kappa index showed a substantial agreement in both cases. No difference in the initial color perception was observed between the group of dermatologists specialized in PWS and the other three dermatologists. These results favor the reliability of the clinical method in the assessment of PWS before and after laser treatment. So, although subjective, color perception by physicians can be used in the study of laser treatment outcome in PWS and its related factors, and the results of different authors can be compared.

Pulsed laser-induced damage of metals at 492 nm.

PubMed

Marrs, C D; Faith, W N; Dancy, J H; Porteus, J O

1982-11-15

A triaxial flashlamp-pumped dye laser has been used to perform laser damage testing of metal surfaces in the blue-green spectral region. Using LD490 laser dye, the laser produces 0.18-J, 0.5-microsec pulses at 492 nm. The spatial profile of the focused beam is measured in orthogonal directions in the plane of the sample surface. The orthogonal profiles are flat-topped Gaussians with 1/e(2) widths of 270 microm. Multithreshold laser damage test results are presented for polished Mo, diamond-turned high-purity Al alloy, diamond-turned bulk Cu, and diamond-turned electrodeposits of Ag and Au on Cu. Comparisons are made between calculated and experimentally measured slip and melt thresholds.

Investigation of 2.1-micron lasing properties of Ho:Tm:Cr:YAG crystals under flash-lamp pumping at various operating conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Kyong H.; Choi, Young S.; Barnes, Norman P.; Hess, Robert V.; Bair, Clayton H.; Brockman, Philip

1993-01-01

Flash-lamp-pumped normal-mode and Q-switched 2.1-micron laser operations of Ho:Tm:Cr:YAG crystals have been evaluated under a wide variety of experimental conditions in order to determine an optimum lasing condition and to characterize the laser outputs. Q-switched laser-output energies equal to, or in some cases exceeding the normal-mode laser energies, were obtained in the form of a strong single spike through an optimization of the opening time of a lithium niobate Q switch. The increase of the normal-mode laser slope efficiency was observed with the increase of the Tm concentration from 2.5 to 4.5 at. pct at operating temperatures from 120 K to near room temperature. Laser transitions were observed only at 2.098 and 2.091 microns under various conditions. The 2.091-micron laser transition appeared to be dominant at high-temperature operations with low-reflective-output couplers.

Optically pumped cerium-doped LiSrAlF{sub 6} and LiCaAlF{sub 6}

DOEpatents

Marshall, C.D.; Payne, S.A.; Krupke, W.F.

1996-05-14

Ce{sup 3+}-doped LiSrAlF{sub 6} crystals are pumped by ultraviolet light which is polarized along the c axis of the crystals to effectively energize the laser system. In one embodiment, the polarized fourth harmonic light output from a conventional Nd:YAG laser operating at 266 nm is arranged to pump Ce:LiSrAlF{sub 6} with the pump light polarized along the c axis of the crystal. The Ce:LiSrAlF{sub 6} crystal may be placed in a laser cavity for generating tunable coherent ultraviolet radiation in the range of 280-320 nm. Additionally, Ce-doped crystals possessing the LiSrAlF{sub 6} type of chemical formula, e.g. Ce-doped LiCaAlF{sub 6} and LiSrGaF{sub 6}, can be used. Alternative pump sources include an ultraviolet-capable krypton or argon laser, or ultraviolet emitting flashlamps. The polarization of the pump light will impact operation. The laser system will operate efficiently when light in the 280-320 nm gain region is injected or recirculated in the system such that the beam is also polarized along the c axis of the crystal. The Ce:LiSrAlF{sub 6} laser system can be configured to generate ultrashort pulses, and it may be used to pump other devices, such as an optical parametric oscillator. 10 figs.

Optically pumped cerium-doped LiSrAlF.sub.6 and LiCaAlF.sub.6

DOEpatents

Marshall, Christopher D.; Payne, Stephen A.; Krupke, William F.

1996-01-01

Ce.sup.3+ -doped LiSrAlF.sub.6 crystals are pumped by ultraviolet light which is polarized along the c axis of the crystals to effectively energize the laser system. In one embodiment, the polarized fourth harmonic light output from a conventional Nd:YAG laser operating at 266 nm is arranged to pump Ce:LiSrAlF.sub.6 with the pump light polarized along the c axis of the crystal. The Ce:LiSrAlF.sub.6 crystal may be placed in a laser cavity for generating tunable coherent ultraviolet radiation in the range of 280-320 nm. Additionally, Ce-doped crystals possessing the LiSrAlF.sub.6 type of chemical formula, e.g. Ce-doped LiCaAlF.sub.6 and LiSrGaF.sub.6, can be used. Alternative pump sources include an ultraviolet-capable krypton or argon laser, or ultraviolet emitting flashlamps. The polarization of the pump light will impact operation. The laser system will operate efficiently when light in the 280-320 nm gain region is injected or recirculated in the system such that the beam is also polarized along the c axis of the crystal. The Ce:LiSrAlF.sub.6 laser system can be configured to generate ultrashort pulses, and it may be used to pump other devices, such as an optical parametric oscillator.

Pressure Studies of Protein Dynamics

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-02-28

a frozen and metastable complex system In the present section was generated by a flashlamp-pumped dye laser (Phase-R DL- treat the equilibrium region...determination of the relative thermodynamic parameters of the and the temperature was monitored with a Si diode on the pressure We assume that the A substates...temperature controller (Model proteins is essentially linear from 200 to 320 K. 2" The entropy 93C). A silicon diode mounted on the sample cell

A compact LIBS system for industrial applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noharet, B.; Sterner, C.; Irebo, T.; Gurell, J.; Bengtson, A.; Vainik, R.; Karlsson, H.; Illy, E.

2015-03-01

In recent years, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has been established as a promising analytical tool for online chemical analysis. The emitted light spectrum is analyzed for instantaneous determination of the elemental composition of the sample, enabling on-line classification of materials. Two major strengths of the technique are the possibilities to perform both fast and remote chemical analysis to determine the elemental composition of the samples under test. In order to reduce the size of LIBS systems, the use of a compact Q-switched diode-pumped solid-state laser (DPSSL) in a LIBS system is evaluated for the industrial sorting of aluminium alloys. The DPSSL, which delivers 150μJ pulses of high beam quality at more than 7KHz repetition rate, provides irradiance on the target that is appropriate for LIBS measurements. The experimental results indicate that alloy classification and quantitative analysis are possible on scrap aluminium samples placed 50 cm apart from the focusing and collecting lenses, without sample preparation. Similar calibration curves and limits of detection are obtained for traditional high-energy low-frequency flashlamp-pumped and low-energy high-frequency diode-pumped lasers, showing the applicability of compact diode-pumped lasers for industrial LIBS applications.

Primary investigations on the potential of a novel diode pumped Er:YAG laser system for middle ear surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, Karl; Wurm, Holger; Hausladen, Florian

2016-02-01

Flashlamp pumped Er:YAG lasers are successfully used clinically for both precise soft and hard tissue ablation. Since several years a novel diode pumped Er:YAG laser system (Pantec Engineering AG) is available, with mean laser power up to 40 W and pulse repetition rate up to 1 kHz. The aim of the study was to investigate the suitability of the laser system specifically for stapedotomy. Firstly an experimental setup was realized with a beam focusing unit and a computer controlled translation stage to move the samples (slices of porcine bone) with a defined velocity while irradiation with various laser parameters. A microphone was positioned in a defined distance to the ablation point and the resulting acoustic signal of the ablation process was recorded. For comparison, measurements were also performed with a flash lamp pumped Er:YAG laser system. After irradiation the resulting ablation quality and efficacy were determined using light microscopy. Using a high speed camera and "Töpler-Schlierentechnik" the cavitation bubble in water after perforation of a bone slice was investigated. The results show efficient bone ablation using the diode pumped Er:YAG laser system. Also a decrease of the sound level and of the cavitation bubble volume was observed with decreasing pulse duration. Higher repetition rates lead to a slightly increase of thermal side effects but have no influence on the ablation efficiency. In conclusion, these first experiments demonstrate the high potential of the diode pumped Er:YAG laser system for use in middle ear surgery.

Applications of lasers and electro-optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, B. C.; Low, K. S.; Chen, Y. H.; Ahmad, Harith; Tou, T. Y.

Supported by the IRPA Programme on Laser Technology and Applications, many types of lasers have been designed, constructed and applied in various areas of science, medicine and industries. Amongst these lasers constructed were high power carbon dioxide lasers, rare gas halide excimer lasers, solid state Neodymium-YAG lasers, nitrogen lasers, flashlamp pumped dye lasers and nitrogen and excimer laser pumped dye lasers. These lasers and the associated electro-optics system, some with computer controlled, are designed and developed for the following areas of applications: (1) industrial applications of high power carbon dioxide lasers for making of i.c. components and other materials processing purposes -- prototype operational systems have been developed; (2) Medical applications of lasers for cancer treatment using the technique of photodynamic therapy -- a new and more effective treatment protocol has been proposed; (3) agricultural applications of lasers in palm oil and palm fruit-fluorescence diagnostic studies -- fruit ripeness signature has been developed and palm oil oxidation level were investigated; (4) development of atmospheric pollution monitoring systems using laser lidar techniques -- laboratory scale systems were developed; and (5) other applications of lasers including laser holographic and interferometric methods for the non destructive testing of materials.

Current German Laser and Quantum Optics Research Reviewed at the 50th Annual Meeting of the Physikalische Gesellschaft.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-04-23

Physics, Munster In the area of generating useable University) studied an interesting de- coherent high-frequency radiation, I vice, a silicon Fabry ...has a substantial crys- tingen) described studies with Cr- plus tal growing capability. One paper from Nd-doped gadolinium -scandium-gallium the Hamburg...institute, read by J. Drube, garnets (GSGG), and also with Cr-doped reported on Xe-flashlamp-pumped Cr:CSA(; % gadolinium -scandium-aluminum garnets

A review of the development of portable laser induced breakdown spectroscopy and its applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rakovský, J.; Čermák, P.; Musset, O.; Veis, P.

2014-11-01

In this review, we present person-transportable laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) devices that have previously been developed and reported in the literature as well as their applications. They are compared with X-ray fluorescent (XRF) devices, which represent their strongest competition. Although LIBS devices have advantages over XRF devices, such as sensitivity to the light elements, high spatial resolution and the possibility to distinguish between different layers of the sample, there are also disadvantages and both are discussed here. Furthermore, the essential portable LIBS instrumentation (laser, spectrograph and detector) is presented, and published results related to new laser sources (diode-pumped solid-state, microchip and fiber lasers) used in LIBS are overviewed. Compared to conventional compact flashlamp pumped solid-state lasers, the new laser sources provide higher repetition rates, higher efficiency (less power consumption) and higher beam quality, resulting in higher fluences, even for lower energies, and could potentially increase the figure of merit of portable LIBS instruments. Compact spectrometers used in portable LIBS devices and their parts (spectrograph, detector) are also discussed.

Laser device and method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Myers, J. D.

1985-06-25

A simplified, relatively inexpensive laser device, wherein the laser elements are fixed in a body exoskeleton of electrical insulating material having a low coefficient of thermal expansion. The preferred embodiment includes a shotgun type laser filter having parallel bores which receive the laser flashlamp and laser rod in fixed relation in a body chamber. The reflector surrounds the laser filter and retains the filter within the body chamber. In the preferred method of this invention, several controlled lasing pulses are generated with each illumination pulse of the flashlamp, substantially increasing the efficiency of the laser device. The number of pulsesmore » is generally controlled by increasing the voltage to the flashlamp. The rapid multiple lasing pulses generate an elongated plasma in a fluid medium, such as the vitreous fluid body of an eye which makes the laser device extemely efficient for treating glaucoma and other medical treatments.« less

Safe Operation and Alignment of the Variable Pulse Width Laser at the US Army Research Laboratory

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-01

that the stored lamp parameters match the desired flashlamp operating parameters. Then go back to the main menu and press “B” to select the desired...operating the laser at a high voltage, either press “STOP” on the flashlamp controller to discharge the capacitors or fire the laser a few times at

A pulse-burst laser system for Thomson scattering on NSTX-U

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Den Hartog, D. J.; Borchardt, M. T.; Holly, D. J.; Diallo, A.; LeBlanc, B.

2017-10-01

A pulse-burst laser system has been built for Thomson scattering on NSTX-U, and is currently being integrated into the NSTX-U Thomson scattering diagnostic system. The laser will be operated in three distinct modes. The base mode is continuous 30 Hz rep rate, and is the standard operating mode of the laser. The base mode will be interrupted to produce a "slow burst" (specified 1 kHz rep rate for 50 ms) or a "fast burst" (specified 10 kHz rep rate for 5 ms). The combination of base mode→ interruption→ burst mode is new and has not been implemented on any previous pulse-burst laser system. Laser pulsing is halted for a set period (~ 1 minute) following a burst to allow the YAG rods to cool; this type of operation is called a heat-capacity laser. The laser is Nd:YAG operated at 1064 nm, q-switched to produce >= 1.5 J pulses with ~ 20 ns FWHM. It is flashlamp pumped, with dual-rod oscillator (9 mm) and dual-rod amplifier (12 mm). Variable pulsewidth drive of the flashlamps is accomplished by IGBT (insulated gate bipolar transistor) switching of electrolytic capacitor banks. Direct control of the laser Pockels cell drive enables optimal pulse energy extraction. The laser system has demonstrated compliance with all specifications, and is capable of exceeding design specifications by significant margins, e.g., higher rep rates for longer burst periods. Burst operation of this laser system will be used to capture fast time evolution of the electron temperature and density profiles during events such as ELMs, the L-H transition, and various MHD modes.

An overview of clinical and experimental treatment modalities for port wine stains

PubMed Central

Chen, Jennifer K.; Ghasri, Pedram; Aguilar, Guillermo; van Drooge, Anne Margreet; Wolkerstorfer, Albert; Kelly, Kristen M.; Heger, Michal

2014-01-01

Port wine stains (PWS) are the most common vascular malformation of the skin, occurring in 0.3% to 0.5% of the population. Noninvasive laser irradiation with flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye lasers (selective photothermolysis) currently comprises the gold standard treatment of PWS; however, the majority of PWS fail to clear completely after selective photothermolysis. In this review, the clinically used PWS treatment modalities (pulsed dye lasers, alexandrite lasers, neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet lasers, and intense pulsed light) and techniques (combination approaches, multiple passes, and epidermal cooling) are discussed. Retrospective analysis of clinical studies published between 1990 and 2011 was performed to determine therapeutic efficacies for each clinically used modality/technique. In addition, factors that have resulted in the high degree of therapeutic recalcitrance are identified, and emerging experimental treatment strategies are addressed, including the use of photodynamic therapy, immunomodulators, angiogenesis inhibitors, hypobaric pressure, and site-specific pharmaco-laser therapy. PMID:22305042

Primary investigations on the potential of a novel diode pumped Er:YAG laser system for bone surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, Karl; Diebolder, Rolf; Hausladen, Florian; Wurm, Holger; Lorenz, Swetlana; Hibst, Raimund

2013-03-01

Flashlamp pumped Er:YAG-lasers are successfully clinically used for both precise soft and hard tissue ablation. As an alternative, actually a novel diode pumped Er:YAG laser system (Pantec Engineering AG) becomes available, with mean laser power up to 15W and pulse repetition rate up to 1kHz. The aim of the presented study is to investigate the effect of this laser system on bone tissue at various irradiation parameters, particular at repetition rates exceeding 100 Hz. For reproducible experiments, firstly an appropriate experimental set-up was realized with a beam delivery and focusing unit, a computer controlled stepper unit with sample holder, and a shutter unit. It allowed to move the sample (1mm- 3mm sawed slices of pig bone) with a defined velocity while irradiation by various laser parameters. A water spray served to moisten the sample surfaces. After irradiation the grooves were analyzed by light microscopy and laser scanning microscopy regarding to the ablation quality, the groove geometry, the ablation efficacy, and the thermal effects. The resulting grooves are slightly cone shaped (groove depth up to 3mm, width about 200μm) with sharp edges at the surface. At 1W, 200Hz, 5mm/s sample movement and with water irrigation the measured ablation speed Δz/Δt is 10.8 mm/s. The ablation depth per pulse is 54μm. In conclusion, these first experiments demonstrate that the diode pumped Er:YAG laser system is an efficient tool for use in bone surgery.

50W CW output power and 12mJ pulses from a quasi-2-level Yb:YAG ceramic rod laser end-pumped at the 969nm zero-phonon line

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fries, Christian; Weitz, Marco; Theobald, Christian; v. Löwis of Menar, Patric; Bartschke, Jürgen; L'huillier, Johannes A.

2015-02-01

With the advent of high power and narrow bandwidth 969 nm pump diodes, direct pumping into the upper laser level of Yb:YAG and hence quasi-2-level lasers became possible. Pumping directly into the emitting level leads to higher quantum efficiency and reduction of non-radiative decay. Consequently, thermal load, thermal lensing and risk of fracture are reduced significantly. Moreover pump saturation and thermal population of uninvolved energy-levels in ground and excited states are benefical for a homogenous distribution of the pump beam as well as the reduction of reabsorption loss compared to 3-level systems, which allows for high-power DPSS lasers. Beside continuous-wave (cw) operation, nanosecond pulses with a repetition rate between 1 and 5 kHz are an attractive alternative to flashlamp-pumped systems (10-100 Hz) in various measurement applications that require higher data acquisition rates because of new faster detectors. Based on measurements of the absorption and a detailed numerical model for pump beam distribution, including beam propagation and saturation factors, power-scaling of a ceramic rod Yb:YAG oscillator was possible. Finally a cw output power of 50 W with 33 % pump efficiency at 1030 nm has been demonstrated (M2 < 1.2). Nanosecond pulses have been produced by cavity-dumping of this system. The cavity-dumped setup allowed for 3-10 ns pulses with a pulse energy of 12.5 mJ at 1 kHz (M2 < 1.1). In order to achieve these results a systematic experimental and numerical investigation on gain dynamics and the identification of different stable operating regimes has been carried out.

High-pulse-energy 3.9-μm lasers in Ho:BYF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stutz, Russell; Miller, Harold C.; Dinndorf, Kenneth M.; Cassanho, Arlete; Jenssen, Hans P.

2004-07-01

Experimental results describing pulsed lasers operating near 3.9 μm on the Ho3+ (5I5-5I6) transition in highly-doped (> 10 at. %) barium yttrium fluoride (BaY2F8 or BYF) will be presented. The 5I5 manifolds in Ho:BYF were pumped using a flashlamp excited, free-running Cr:LiSAF laser tuned to the Ho3+ absorption peak near 889nm. Ho3+ concentrations of 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% in BYF were lased in a simple end-pumped resonator. Some similar data was also obtained in 10% and 20% Ho:YLF. The highest 3.9 μm pulse energy obtained in the comparative study was 55 mJ (at ~10% optical-to-optical efficiency) using the 30% Ho:BYF crystal. A dual end-pumped laser in 30% Ho:BYF was also demonstrated, providing a pulse energy of 90 mJ in a near diffraction limited beam (M2 ~ 1.2). Emission decay data was taken to shed light on the observed dependence of laser efficiency on holmium concentration and excitation density. The lifetimes of both lasing levels (5I5 and 5I6) deviate rather significantly from their low-concentration values. Plausible energy transfer processes that may be responsible for the observed trends in the laser and emission data will also be discussed.

Effects of 946-nm thermal shift and broadening on Nd3+:YAG laser performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seyed Ebrahim, Pourmand; Ghasem, Rezaei

2015-12-01

Spectroscopic properties of flashlamp pumped Nd3+:YAG laser are studied as a function of temperature in a range from -30 °C to 60 °C. The spectral width and shift of quasi three-level 946.0-nm inter-Stark emission within the respective intermanifold transitions of 4F3/2 → 4I9/2 are investigated. The 946.0-nm line shifts toward the shorter wavelength and broadens. In addition, the threshold power and slope efficiency of the 946.0-nm laser line are quantified with temperature. The lower the temperature, the lower the threshold power is and the higher the slope efficiency of the 946.0-nm laser line is, thus the higher the laser output is. This phenomenon is attributed to the ion-phonon interaction and the thermal population in the ground state. Project supported by Estahban Branch, Islamic Azad University.

Electro-optically Q-switched dual-wavelength Nd:YLF laser emitting at 1047 nm and 1053 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Men, Shaojie; Liu, Zhaojun; Cong, Zhenhua; Li, Yongfu; Zhang, Xingyu

2015-05-01

A flash-lamp pumped electro-optically Q-switched dual-wavelength Nd:YLF laser is demonstrated. Two Nd:YLF crystals placed in two cavities are employed to generate orthogonally polarized 1047 nm and 1053 nm radiations, respectively. The two cavities are jointed together by a polarizer and share the same electro-optical Q-switch. Two narrow-band pass filters are used to block unexpected oscillations at the hold-off state of the electro-optical Q-switch. In this case, electro-optical Q-switching is able to operate successfully. With pulse synchronization realized, the maximum output energy of 66.2 mJ and 83.9 mJ are obtained for 1047 nm and 1053 nm lasers, respectively. Correspondingly, the minimum pulse width is both 17 ns for 1047 nm and 1053 nm lasers. Sum frequency generation is realized. This demonstrates the potential of this laser in difference-frequency generations to obtain terahertz wave.

Hair ignition by dye laser for port-wine stain: risk factors evaluated.

PubMed

Molin, L; Hallgren, S

1999-04-01

Flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser is the preferred treatment for port-wine stain. Vascular hemoglobin and epidermal melanin are competing sites for dye laser absorption and damage. The case presented illustrates the potential hazard of ignition induced by dye laser treatment on the face of a patient receiving inhalation anesthesia. A 6-year-old girl with almost black hair was treated for a port-wine stain covering most of the right half of her face. She was treated with dye laser under general anesthesia administered by mask. A laser pulse close to the upper part of the eyebrow induced a blaze and the eyebrow was instantly destroyed by the fire. Regrowth of the eyebrow was complete after a few months. Hair specimens of various colors were exposed experimentally to dye laser irradiation in room and oxygen-saturated atmospheres. Risk factors of ignition are high laser dosage, a high oxygen level, repeated pulses and dark colored hair.

An overview of clinical and experimental treatment modalities for port wine stains.

PubMed

Chen, Jennifer K; Ghasri, Pedram; Aguilar, Guillermo; van Drooge, Anne Margreet; Wolkerstorfer, Albert; Kelly, Kristen M; Heger, Michal

2012-08-01

Port wine stains (PWS) are the most common vascular malformation of the skin, occurring in 0.3% to 0.5% of the population. Noninvasive laser irradiation with flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye lasers (selective photothermolysis) currently comprises the gold standard treatment of PWS; however, the majority of PWS fail to clear completely after selective photothermolysis. In this review, the clinically used PWS treatment modalities (pulsed dye lasers, alexandrite lasers, neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet lasers, and intense pulsed light) and techniques (combination approaches, multiple passes, and epidermal cooling) are discussed. Retrospective analysis of clinical studies published between 1990 and 2011 was performed to determine therapeutic efficacies for each clinically used modality/technique. In addition, factors that have resulted in the high degree of therapeutic recalcitrance are identified, and emerging experimental treatment strategies are addressed, including the use of photodynamic therapy, immunomodulators, angiogenesis inhibitors, hypobaric pressure, and site-specific pharmaco-laser therapy. Copyright © 2011 American Academy of Dermatology, Inc. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Efficient bone cutting with the novel diode pumped Er:YAG laser system: in vitro investigation and optimization of the treatment parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, Karl; Diebolder, Rolf; Hausladen, Florian; Hibst, Raimund

2014-03-01

It is well known that flashlamp pumped Er:YAG lasers allow efficient bone ablation due to strong absorption at 3μm by water. Preliminary experiments revealed also a newly developed diode pumped Er:YAG laser system (Pantec Engineering AG) to be an efficient tool for use for bone surgery. The aim of the present in vitro study is the investigation of a new power increased version of the laser system with higher pulse energy and optimization of the treatment set-up to get high cutting quality, efficiency, and ablation depth. Optical simulations were performed to achieve various focus diameters and homogeneous beam profile. An appropriate experimental set-up with two different focusing units, a computer controlled linear stage with sample holder, and a shutter unit was realized. By this we are able to move the sample (slices of pig bone) with a defined velocity during the irradiation. Cutting was performed under appropriate water spray by moving the sample back and forth. After each path the ablation depth was measured and the focal plane was tracked to the actual bottom of the groove. Finally, the cuts were analyzed by light microcopy regarding the ablation quality and geometry, and thermal effects. In summary, the results show that with carefully adapted irradiation parameters narrow and deep cuts (ablation depth > 6mm, aspect ratio approx. 20) are possible without carbonization. In conclusion, these in vitro investigations demonstrate that high efficient bone cutting is possible with the diode pumped Er:YAG laser system using appropriate treatment set-up and parameters.

A cryo-cooled high-energy DPSSL system delivering ns-pulses at 10 J and 10 Hz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ertel, Klaus; Banerjee, Saumyabrata; Butcher, Thomas J.; De Vido, Mariastefania; Mason, Paul D.; Phillips, P. J.; Richards, David; Shaikh, Waseem; Smith, Jodie M.; Greenhalgh, R. Justin S.; Hernandez-Gomez, Cristina; Collier, John L.

2015-02-01

Lasers generating multi-J to kJ ns-pulses are required for many types of laser-plasma interactions. Such lasers are either used directly for compressing matter to extreme densities or they serve as pump lasers for short-pulses laser chains based on large-aperture Ti:sapphire or parametric amplifiers. The thus generated high-energy fs-pulses are most useful for laser driven secondary sources of particles (electrons, protons) or photons (from THz to gamma). While proof-of-principle experiments have been carried out with flashlamp-pumped glass lasers, lasers with much higher efficiency and repetition rate are required to make this applications practically viable. We have developed a scalable new laser concept called DiPOLE (diode pumped optical laser for experiments) based on a gas-cooled ceramic Yb:YAG multi-slab architecture operating at cryogenic temperatures. While the viability of this concept has been shown earlier [1], we have now reached our target performance of 10 J pulse energy at 10 Hz repetition rate at an optical-to-optical efficiency of 21%. To the best of our knowledge, these are record values for average power and efficiency for lasers of this type. We have also upgraded the system by adding a fibre-based front-end system with arbitrary pulse shaping capability and by installing an image-relayed multipass system enabling up to eight passes of the main amplifier. We have then used this system to demonstrate frequency doubling with 65 % conversion efficiency and a long-term shot-to-shot stability of 0.5% rms over a total of nearly 2 million shots, achieved in runs extending over 4 to 6 hours.

Laser action of Pr3+ in LiYF4 and spectroscopy of Eu2+-sensitized Pr in BaY2F8

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knowles, David S.; Gabbe, David; Jenssen, H. P.; Zhang, Z.

1988-06-01

Laser action in flashlamp-pumped Pr:LiYF4 at room temperature is observed at 640 nm with a 15-J threshold, but only about 0.01 percent slope efficiency. Increased efficiency from sensitizing the Pr with Eu2+ is explored in the system Eu,Pr:BaY2F8. Codoped samples have been grown by the Czochralski growth method, and energy transfer between 2+ and Pr3+ is observed to be very weak. This is probably due to the poor overlap of the Eu2+ emission with the Pr3+ absorption lines, leading to the conclusion that hosts with a stronger crystal field at the Eu2+ site need to be identified.

Long-pulse-width narrow-bandwidth solid state laser

DOEpatents

Dane, C. Brent; Hackel, Lloyd A.

1997-01-01

A long pulse laser system emits 500-1000 ns quasi-rectangular pulses at 527 nm with near diffraction-limited divergence and near transform-limited bandwidth. The system consists of one or more flashlamp-pumped Nd:glass zig-zag amplifiers, a very low threshold stimulated-Brillouin-scattering (SBS) phase conjugator system, and a free-running single frequency Nd:YLF master oscillator. Completely passive polarization switching provides eight amplifier gain passes. Multiple frequency output can be generated by using SBS cells having different pressures of a gaseous SBS medium or different SBS materials. This long pulse, low divergence, narrow-bandwidth, multi-frequency output laser system is ideally suited for use as an illuminator for long range speckle imaging applications. Because of its high average power and high beam quality, this system has application in any process which would benefit from a long pulse format, including material processing and medical applications.

Long-pulse-width narrow-bandwidth solid state laser

DOEpatents

Dane, C.B.; Hackel, L.A.

1997-11-18

A long pulse laser system emits 500-1000 ns quasi-rectangular pulses at 527 nm with near diffraction-limited divergence and near transform-limited bandwidth. The system consists of one or more flashlamp-pumped Nd:glass zig-zag amplifiers, a very low threshold stimulated-Brillouin-scattering (SBS) phase conjugator system, and a free-running single frequency Nd:YLF master oscillator. Completely passive polarization switching provides eight amplifier gain passes. Multiple frequency output can be generated by using SBS cells having different pressures of a gaseous SBS medium or different SBS materials. This long pulse, low divergence, narrow-bandwidth, multi-frequency output laser system is ideally suited for use as an illuminator for long range speckle imaging applications. Because of its high average power and high beam quality, this system has application in any process which would benefit from a long pulse format, including material processing and medical applications. 5 figs.

Advances in generation of high-repetition-rate burst mode laser output.

PubMed

Jiang, Naibo; Webster, Matthew C; Lempert, Walter R

2009-02-01

It is demonstrated that the incorporation of variable pulse duration flashlamp power supplies into an Nd:YAG burst mode laser system results in very substantial increases in the realizable energy per pulse, the total pulse train length, and uniformity of the intensity envelope. As an example, trains of 20 pulses at burst frequencies of 50 and 20 kHz are demonstrated with individual pulse energy at 1064 nm of 220 and 400 mJ, respectively. Conversion efficiency to the second- (532 nm) and third- (355 nm) harmonic wavelengths of approximately 50% and 35-40%, respectively, is also achieved. Use of the third-harmonic output of the burst mode laser as a pump source for a simple, home built optical parametric oscillator (OPO) produces pulse trains of broadly wavelength tunable output. Sum-frequency mixing of OPO signal output at 622 nm with residual output from the 355 nm pump beam is shown to produce uniform bursts of tunable output at approximately 226 nm, with individual pulse energy of approximately 0.5 mJ. Time-correlated NO planar laser induced fluorescence (PLIF) image sequences are obtained in a Mach 3 wind tunnel at 500 kHz, representing, to our knowledge, the first demonstration of NO PLIF imaging at repetition rates exceeding tens of hertz.

Dye laser traveling wave amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davidson, F.; Hohman, J.

1985-01-01

Injection locking was applied to a cavity-dumped coaxial flashlamp pumped dye laser in an effort to obtain nanosecond duration pulses which have both high energy and narrow-linewidth. In the absence of an injected laser pulse, the cavity-dumped dye laser was capable of generating high energy (approx. 60mJ) nanosecond duration output pulses. These pulses, however, had a fixed center wavelength and were extremely broadband (approx. 6nm FWHM). Experimental investigations were performed to determine if the spectral properties of these outputs could be improved through the use of injection-locking techniques. A parametric study to determine the specific conditions under which the laser could be injection-locked was also carried out. Significant linewidth reduction to 0.0015nm) of the outputs was obtained through injection-locking but only at wavelengths near the peak lasing wavelength of the dye. It was found, however; that by inserting weakly dispersive tuning elements in the laser cavity, these narrow-linewidth outputs could be obtained over a wide (24nm) tuning range. Since the tuning elements had low insertion losses, the tunability of the output was obtained without sacrificing output pulse energy.

Advances in laser technology and fibre-optic delivery systems in lithotripsy.

PubMed

Fried, Nathaniel M; Irby, Pierce B

2018-06-08

The flashlamp-pumped, solid-state holmium:yttrium-aluminium-garnet (YAG) laser has been the laser of choice for use in ureteroscopic lithotripsy for the past 20 years. However, although the holmium laser works well on all stone compositions and is cost-effective, this technology still has several fundamental limitations. Newer laser technologies, including the frequency-doubled, double-pulse YAG (FREDDY), erbium:YAG, femtosecond, and thulium fibre lasers, have all been explored as potential alternatives to the holmium:YAG laser for lithotripsy. Each of these laser technologies is associated with technical advantages and disadvantages, and the search continues for the next generation of laser lithotripsy systems that can provide rapid, safe, and efficient stone ablation. New fibre-optic approaches for safer and more efficient delivery of the laser energy inside the urinary tract include the use of smaller-core fibres and fibres that are tapered, spherical, detachable or hollow steel, or have muzzle brake distal fibre-optic tips. These specialty fibres might provide advantages, including improved flexibility for maximal ureteroscope deflection, reduced cross section for increased saline irrigation rates through the working channel of the ureteroscope, reduced stone retropulsion for improved stone ablation efficiency, and reduced fibre degradation and burnback for longer fibre life.

Update on diode-pumped solid-state laser experiments for inertial fusion energy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Marshall, C.; Smith, L.; Payne, S.

The authors have completed the initial phase of the diode-pumped solid-state laser (DPSSL) experimental program to validate the expected pumping dynamics and extraction cross-sections of Yb{sup 3+}-doped Sr{sub 5}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3}F (Yb:S-FAP) crystals. Yb:S-FAP crystals up to 25 x 25 x 175 mm in size have been grown for this purpose which have acceptable loss characteristics (<1 %/cm) and laser damage thresholds ({approximately}20 J/cm{sup 2}). The saturation fluence for pumping has been measured to be 2.2 J/cm{sup 2} using three different methods based on either the spatial, temporal, or energy transmission properties of a Yb:S-FAP rod. The small signal gainmore » under saturated pumping conditions was measured. These measurements imply an emission cross section of 6.0 x 10{sup {minus}20} cm{sup 2} that falls within error bars of the previously reported value of 7.3 x 10{sup {minus}20} cm{sup 2}, obtained from purely spectroscopic techniques. The effects of radiation trapping on the emission lifetime have been quantified. The long lifetime of Yb:S-FAP has beneficial effects for diode-pumped amplifier designs, relative to materials with equivalent cross sections but shorter lifetimes, in that less peak pump intensity is required (thus lower diode costs) and that lower spontaneous emission rates lead to a reduction in amplified spontaneous emission. Consequently, up to 1.7 J/cm{sup 3} of stored energy density was achieved in a 6x6x44 mm Yb:S-FAP amplifier rod; this stored energy density is large relative to typical flashlamp-pumped Nd:glass values of 0.3 to 0.5 J/cm{sup 3}. A 2.4 kW peak power InGaAs diode array has been fabricated by Beach, Emanuel, and co-workers which meets the central wavelength, bandwidth, and energy specifications for the author`s immediate experiments. These results further increase their optimism of being able to produce a {approximately} 10% efficient diode-pumped solid state laser for inertial fusion energy.« less

100 J UV glass laser for dynamic compression research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zweiback, J.; Fochs, S. F.; Bromage, J.; Broege, D.; Cuffney, R.; Currier, Z.; Dorrer, C.; Ehrich, B.; Engler, J.; Guardalben, M.; Kephalos, N.; Marozas, J.; Roides, R.; Zuegel, J.

2017-02-01

A frequency tripled, Nd:Glass laser has been constructed and installed at the Dynamic Compression Sector located at the Advanced Photon Source. This 100-J laser will be used to drive shocks in condensed matter which will then be interrogated by the facility x-ray beam. The laser is designed for reliable operation, utilizing proven designs for all major subsystems. A fiber front-end provides arbitrarily shaped pulses to the amplifier chain. A diode-pumped Nd:glass regenerative amplifier is followed by a four-pass, flashlamp- pumped rod amplifier. The regenerative amplifier produces up to 20 mJ with better than 1% RMS stability. The passively multiplexed four-pass amplifier produces up to 2 J. The final amplifier uses a 15-cm Nd:glass disk amplifier in a six-pass configuration. Over 200 J of infrared energy is produced by the disk amplifier. A KDP Type-II/Type-II frequency tripler configuration, utilizing a dual tripler, converts the 1053-nm laser output to a wavelength of 351 nm and the ultraviolet beam is image relayed to the target chamber. Output energy stability is better than 3%. Smoothing by Spectral Dispersion and polarization smoothing have been optimized to produce a highly uniform focal spot. A distributed phase plate and aspheric lens produce a farfield spot with a measured uniformity of 8.2% RMS. Custom control software collects all data and provides the operator an intuitive interface to operate and maintain the laser.

Quenched-in defects in flashlamp-annealed silicon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Borenstein, J. T.; Jones, J. T.; Corbett, J. W.; Oehrlein, G. S.; Kleinhenz, R. L.

1986-01-01

Deep levels introduced in boron-doped silicon by heat-pulse annealing with a tungsten-halogen flashlamp are investigated using deep-level transient spectroscopy. Two majority-carrier trapping levels in the band gap, at Ev + 0.32 eV and at Ev + 0.45 eV, are observed. These results are compared to those obtained by furnace-quenching and laser-annealing studies. Both the position in the gap and the annealing kinetics of the hole trap at Ev + 0.45 eV suggest that this center is due to an interstitial iron impurity in the lattice. The deep levels are not consistently observed in all flashlamp-annealed Si crystals utilized.

Efficacy of corneal eye shields in protecting patients' eyes from laser irradiation.

PubMed

Russell, S W; Dinehart, S M; Davis, I; Flock, S T

1996-07-01

The continuing development of new types and applications of lasers has appeared to surpass the development of specific eye protection for these lasers. There are a variety of eye shields on the market, but few are specifically designed for laser protection. Our purpose was to test a variety of eye shields by two parameters, light transmission and temperature rise, and to determine from these measurements the most protective shield for patients. We tested four plastic shields, one metal shield, and two sets of tanning goggles for temperature rise and light transmission when irradiated with a beam from a flashlamp-pumped, pulsed-dye laser. The temperature rise at the surface of the shield opposite the laser impacts was no more than 0.2 degree C in any case. White light was transmitted at significant levels through several of the shields, but yellow light transmittance was noted only through the green eye shield. Our measurements indicate that all except the green shield appeared safe from transmission of the 585-nm radiant energy. However, the optimal laser eye shield, in our opinion, would be a composite of several different shields' characteristics.

Optical phase conjugation by four-wave mixing in Nd:YAG laser oscillator for optical energy transfer to a remote target

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kawakami, K., E-mail: k.kawakami@al.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp; Komurasaki, K.; Okamura, H.

2015-02-28

A self-starting phase conjugator was designed for optical energy transfer to a remote target. Saturable-gain four-wave mixing in a laser resonator was achieved using a flash-lamp pumped Nd:YAG crystal and phase-conjugate light (PCL) generation were verified. Wavefront correction experimentation revealed that beam wander caused by air turbulence is compensated. Tracking capability was demonstrated in the range of 9 mrad with tracking accuracy of ±0.04 mrad. The maximum field of view was measured to be 4.7°. Dependence of phase-conjugate light energy on reference light energy was investigated. The maximum output of 320 mJ was obtained. The temporal behavior of PCL ismore » discussed based on the four-wave mixing mechanism. Unlike a conventional loop resonator type phase conjugator, this system is applicable for wireless energy transfer to a remote target.« less

Plasma shield lasertripsy: in vitro studies.

PubMed

Bhatta, K M; Rosen, D I; Dretler, S P

1989-10-01

A technique for safer and more effective pulsed laser lithotripsy of urinary and biliary calculi was investigated in vitro. The technique involves enclosing the distal end of the laser delivery fiber in a "plasma shield." The plasma shield is a specially designed metal cap that serves to transfer the laser-induced mechanical impulse to the calculus while shielding surrounding tissue from direct laser exposure and thermal radiation. The metal cap also offers the advantage of effectively blunting the sharp fiber tip and improving its visualization under fluoroscopy. Plasma shield lithotripsy using a 200 micron quartz fiber inserted into a section of a modified 0.034 in. diameter stainless steel guide wire was tested in vitro on a variety of calculi and compared with results obtained using a 200 micron laser fiber applied directly. Calculi tested included cystine, struvite and calcium oxalate dihydrate urinary stones and pigmented cholesterol gallstones. The laser source was a flashlamp-pumped dye laser producing pulses of 1.2 microsecond duration and operated at a wavelength of 504 nm and pulse repetition frequency of 5 Hz. The results show that plasma shield lasertripsy is as effective as direct lasertripsy for fragmenting gallstones, struvite and calcium oxalate dihydrate calculi, is potentially safer, and can fragment cystine calculi which the pulsed dye laser applied directly cannot.

Billion shot flashlamp for spaceborne lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richter, Linda; Schuda, Felix; Degnan, John

1990-01-01

A billion-shot flashlamp developed under a NASA contract for spaceborne laser missions is presented. Lifetime-limiting mechanisms are identified and addressed. Two energy loadings of 15 and 44 Joules were selected for the initial accelerated life testing. A fluorescence-efficiency test station was used for measuring the useful-light output degradation of the lamps. The design characteristics meeting NASA specifications are outlined. Attention is focused on the physical properties of tungsten-matrix cathodes, the chemistry of dispenser cathodes, and anode degradation. It is reported that out of the total 83 lamps tested in the program, 4 lamps reached a billion shots and one lamp is beyond 1.7 billion shots, while at 44 Joules, 4 lamps went beyond 100 million shots and one lamp reached 500 million shots.

Solid state lasers for use in non-contact temperature measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buoncristiani, A. M.

1989-01-01

The last decade has seen a series of dramatic developments in solid state laser technology. Prominent among these has been the emergence of high power semiconductor laser diode arrays and a deepening understanding of the dynamics of solid state lasers. Taken in tandem these two developments enable the design of laser diode pumped solid state lasers. Pumping solid state lasers with semiconductor diodes relieves the need for cumbersome and inefficient flashlamps and results in an efficient and stable laser with the compactness and reliability. It provides a laser source that can be reliably used in space. These new coherent sources are incorporated into the non-contact measurement of temperature. The primary focus is the development and characterization of new optical materials for use in active remote sensors of the atmosphere. In the course of this effort several new materials and new concepts were studied which can be used for other sensor applications. The general approach to the problem of new non-contact temperature measurements has had two components. The first component centers on passive sensors using optical fibers; an optical fiber temperature sensor for the drop tube was designed and tested at the Marshall Space Flight Center. Work on this problem has given insight into the use of optical fibers, especially new IR fibers, in thermal metrology. The second component of the effort is to utilize the experience gained in the study of passive sensors to examine new active sensor concepts. By active sensor are defined as a sensing device or mechanism which is interrogated in some way be radiation, usually from a laser. The status of solid state lasers as sources for active non-contact temperature sensors are summarized. Some specific electro-optic techniques are described which are applicable to the sensor problems at hand. Work on some of these ideas is in progress while other concepts are still being worked out.

Wavefront control of high-power laser beams in the National Ignition Facility (NIF)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zacharias, Richard A.; Bliss, Erlan S.; Winters, Scott; Sacks, Richard A.; Feldman, Mark; Grey, Andrew; Koch, Jeffrey A.; Stolz, Christopher J.; Toeppen, John S.; Van Atta, Lewis; Woods, Bruce W.

2000-04-01

The use of lasers as the driver for inertial confinement fusion and weapons physics experiments is based on their ability to produce high-energy short pulses in a beam with low divergence. Indeed, the focusability of high quality laser beams far exceeds alternate technologies and is a major factor in the rationale for building high power lasers for such applications. The National Ignition Facility (NIF) is a large, 192-beam, high-power laser facility under construction at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for fusion and weapons physics experiments. Its uncorrected minimum focal spot size is limited by laser system aberrations. The NIF includes a Wavefront Control System to correct these aberrations to yield a focal spot small enough for its applications. Sources of aberrations to be corrected include prompt pump-induced distortions in the laser amplifiers, previous-shot thermal distortions, beam off-axis effects, and gravity, mounting, and coating-induced optic distortions. Aberrations from gas density variations and optic-manufacturing figure errors are also partially corrected. This paper provides an overview of the NIF Wavefront Control System and describes the target spot size performance improvement it affords. It describes provisions made to accommodate the NIF's high fluence (laser beam and flashlamp), large wavefront correction range, wavefront temporal bandwidth, temperature and humidity variations, cleanliness requirements, and exception handling requirements (e.g. wavefront out-of-limits conditions).

Observation of nanosecond laser induced fluorescence of in vitro seawater phytoplankton

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bensky, Thomas J.; Clemo, Lisa; Gilbert, Chris

2008-08-01

Seawater has been irradiated using a train of 70 ns flashes from a 440 nm laser source. This wavelength is on resonance with the blue absorption peak of Chlorophyll pigment associated with the photosystem of in vitro phytoplankton. The resulting fluorescence at 685 nm is instantaneously recorded during each laser pulse using a streak camera. Delayed fluorescence is observed, yielding clues about initiation of the photosynthetic process on a nanosecond time scale. Further data processing allows for determination of the functional absorption cross section, found to be 0.0095 ?{sup 2}, which is the first reporting of this number for inmore » vitro phytoplankton. Unlike other flash-pump studies of Chlorophyll, using a LED or flashlamp-based sources, the short laser pulse used here does not reveal any pulse-to-pulse hysteresis (i.e., variable fluorescence), indicating that the laser pulses used here are not able to drive the photosynthetic process to completion. This is attributed to competition from a back reaction between the photoexcited photosystem II and the intermediate electron acceptor. The significance of this work as a new type of deployable ocean fluorimeter is discussed, and it is believed the apparatus will have applications in thin-layer phytoplankton research.« less

Optical hair removal.

PubMed

Ort, R J; Anderson, R R

1999-06-01

Traditional methods of hair removal have proven unsatisfactory for many individuals with excessive or unwanted hair. In the last few years, several lasers and xenon flashlamps have been developed that promise to fulfill the need for a practical, safe, and long-lasting method of hair removal. Aggressive marketing of these has contributed to their popularity among patients and physicians. However, significant controversy and confusion surrounds this field. This article provides a detailed explanation of the scientific underpinnings for optical hair removal and explores the advantages and disadvantages of the various devices currently available (Nd:YAG, ruby, alexandrite, diode lasers, and xenon flashlamp). Treatment and safety guidelines are provided to assist the practitioner in the use of these devices. Although the field of optical hair removal is still in its infancy, initial reports of long-term efficacy are encouraging.

NASA's Space Lidar Measurements of Earth and Planetary Surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abshire, James B.

2010-01-01

A lidar instrument on a spacecraft was first used to measure planetary surface height and topography on the Apollo 15 mission to the Moon in 1971, The lidar was based around a flashlamp-pumped ruby laser, and the Apollo 15-17 missions used them to make a few thousand measurements of lunar surface height from orbit. With the advent of diode pumped lasers in the late 1980s, the lifetime, efficiency, resolution and mass of lasers and space lidar all improved dramatically. These advances were utilized in NASA space missions to map the shape and surface topography of Mars with > 600 million measurements, demonstrate initial space measurements of the Earth's topography, and measured the detailed shape of asteroid. NASA's ICESat mission in Earth orbit just completed its polar ice measurement mission with almost 2 billion measurements of the Earth's surface and atmosphere, and demonstrated measurements to Antarctica and Greenland with a height resolution of a few em. Space missions presently in cruise phase and in operation include those to Mercury and a topographic mapping mission of the Moon. Orbital lidar also have been used in experiments to demonstrate laser ranging over planetary distances, including laser pulse transmission from Earth to Mars orbit. Based on the demonstrated value of the measurements, lidar is now the preferred measurement approach for many new scientific space missions. Some missions planned by NASA include a planetary mission to measure the shape and dynamics of Europa, and several Earth orbiting missions to continue monitoring ice sheet heights, measure vegetation heights, assess atmospheric CO2 concentrations, and to map the Earth surface topographic heights with 5 m spatial resolution. This presentation will give an overview of history, ongoing work, and plans for using space lidar for measurements of the surfaces of the Earth and planets.

Combining Raman and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy by double pulse lasing.

PubMed

Lednev, Vasily N; Pershin, Sergey M; Sdvizhenskii, Pavel A; Grishin, Mikhail Ya; Fedorov, Alexander N; Bukin, Vladimir V; Oshurko, Vadim B; Shchegolikhin, Alexander N

2018-01-01

A new approach combining Raman spectrometry and laser induced breakdown spectrometry (LIBS) within a single laser event was suggested. A pulsed solid state Nd:YAG laser running in double pulse mode (two frequency-doubled sequential nanosecond laser pulses with dozens microseconds delay) was used to combine two spectrometry methods within a single instrument (Raman/LIBS spectrometer). First, a low-energy laser pulse (power density far below ablation threshold) was used for Raman measurements while a second powerful laser pulse created the plasma suitable for LIBS analysis. A short time delay between two successive pulses allows measuring LIBS and Raman spectra at different moments but within a single laser flash-lamp pumping. Principal advantages of the developed instrument include high quality Raman/LIBS spectra acquisition (due to optimal gating for Raman/LIBS independently) and absence of target thermal alteration during Raman measurements. A series of high quality Raman and LIBS spectra were acquired for inorganic salts (gypsum, anhydrite) as well as for pharmaceutical samples (acetylsalicylic acid). To the best of our knowledge, the quantitative analysis feasibility by combined Raman/LIBS instrument was demonstrated for the first time by calibration curves construction for acetylsalicylic acid (Raman) and copper (LIBS) in gypsum matrix. Combining ablation pulses and Raman measurements (LIBS/Raman measurements) within a single instrument makes it an efficient tool for identification of samples hidden by non-transparent covering or performing depth profiling analysis including remote sensing. Graphical abstract Combining Raman and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy by double pulse lasing.

Hyperdoping silicon with selenium: solid vs. liquid phase epitaxy

PubMed Central

Zhou, Shengqiang; Liu, Fang; Prucnal, S.; Gao, Kun; Khalid, M.; Baehtz, C.; Posselt, M.; Skorupa, W.; Helm, M.

2015-01-01

Chalcogen-hyperdoped silicon shows potential applications in silicon-based infrared photodetectors and intermediate band solar cells. Due to the low solid solubility limits of chalcogen elements in silicon, these materials were previously realized by femtosecond or nanosecond laser annealing of implanted silicon or bare silicon in certain background gases. The high energy density deposited on the silicon surface leads to a liquid phase and the fast recrystallization velocity allows trapping of chalcogen into the silicon matrix. However, this method encounters the problem of surface segregation. In this paper, we propose a solid phase processing by flash-lamp annealing in the millisecond range, which is in between the conventional rapid thermal annealing and pulsed laser annealing. Flash lamp annealed selenium-implanted silicon shows a substitutional fraction of ~ 70% with an implanted concentration up to 2.3%. The resistivity is lower and the carrier mobility is higher than those of nanosecond pulsed laser annealed samples. Our results show that flash-lamp annealing is superior to laser annealing in preventing surface segregation and in allowing scalability. PMID:25660096

Imaging of molecular hydrogen and oxygen by single and two-photon fluorescence using laser and flashlamp sources

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Diskin, Glenn S.; Lempert, Walter R.; Miles, Richard B.; Kumar, Vinod; Glesk, Ivan

1991-01-01

Two flow visualization techniques, i.e., simultaneous two-dimensional fluorescence imaging of H2 and O2 in a diffusion flame, and quasi-linear fluorescence imaging of O2, are presented. The first uses an injection-locked argon-fluoride excimer laser and a partial overlap of a two-photon ground state absorption in H2 with a single photon absorption from a vibrational level in O2. The second uses a simple, high-intensity ultraviolet flashlamp which provides a flux of photons in the 180-195 nm range, sufficient to produce a quasi-one-dimensional fluorescence image of hot/room temperature oxygen. Both techniques do not require that a seed material be introduced into the flow, they can image major flow constituents, and provide an instantaneous snapshot of the flow.

3D gain modeling of LMJ and NIF amplifiers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LeTouze, Geoffroy; Cabourdin, Olivier; Mengue, J. F.; Guenet, Mireille; Grebot, Eric; Seznec, Stephane E.; Jancaitis, Kenneth S.; Marshall, Christopher D.; Zapata, Luis E.; Erlandson, A. E.

1999-07-01

A 3D ray-trace model has been developed to predict the performance of flashlamp pumped laser amplifiers. The computer program, written in C++, includes a graphical display option using the Open Inventor library, as well as a parser and a loader allowing the user to easily model complex multi-segment amplifier systems. It runs both on a workstation cluster at LLNL, and on the T3E Cray at CEA. We will discuss how we have reduce the required computation time without changing precision by optimizing the parameters which set the discretization level of the calculation. As an example, the sample of calculation points is chosen to fit the pumping profile through the thickness of amplifier slabs. We will show the difference in pump rates with our latest model as opposed to those produced by our earlier 2.5D code AmpModel. We will also present the results of calculations which model surfaces and other 3D effects such as top and bottom refelcotr positions and reflectivity which could not be included in the 2.5D model. This new computer model also includes a full 3D calculation of the amplified spontaneous emission rate in the laser slab, as opposed to the 2.5D model which tracked only the variation in the gain across the transverse dimensions of the slab. We will present the impact of this evolution of the model on the predicted stimulated decay rate and the resulting gain distribution. Comparison with most recent AmpLab experimental result will be presented, in the different typical NIF and LMJ configurations.

Evaluation of port-wine stain treatment outcomes using multispectral imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samatham, Ravikant; Choudhury, Niloy; Krol, Alfons L.; Jacques, Steven L.

2012-02-01

Port-wine Stain (PWS) is a vascular malformation characterized by ectasia of superficial dermal capillaries. The flash-lamp pumped pulsed dye laser (PDL) treatment has been the mainstay of PWS for the last decade. Despite the success of the PDL in significantly fading the PWS, the overall cure rate is less than 10%. The precise efficacy of an individual PDL treatment is hard to evaluate and the treatment outcome is measured by visual observation of clinical fading. A hand-held multi-spectral imaging system was developed to image PWS before and after PDL treatment. In an NIH-funded pilot study multi-spectral camera was used to image PWS in children (2- 17 years). Oxygen saturation (S) and blood content (B) of PWS before and after the treatment was determined by analysis of the reflectance spectra. The outcome of the treatment was evaluated during follow up visits of the patients. One of the major causes of failure of laser therapy of port-wine stains (PWS) is reperfusion of the lesion after laser treatment. Oxygen saturation and blood content maps of PWS before and after treatment can predict regions of reperfusion and subsequent failure of the treatment. The ability to measure reperfusion and to predict lesions or areas susceptible to reperfusion, will help in selection of patients/lesions for laser treatment and help to optimize laser dosimetry for maximum effect. The current studies also should provide a basis for monitoring of future alternative therapies or enhancers of laser treatment in resistant cases.

Laser-induced retinal damage thresholds for annular retinal beam profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kennedy, Paul K.; Zuclich, Joseph A.; Lund, David J.; Edsall, Peter R.; Till, Stephen; Stuck, Bruce E.; Hollins, Richard C.

2004-07-01

The dependence of retinal damage thresholds on laser spot size, for annular retinal beam profiles, was measured in vivo for 3 μs, 590 nm pulses from a flashlamp-pumped dye laser. Minimum Visible Lesion (MVL)ED50 thresholds in rhesus were measured for annular retinal beam profiles covering 5, 10, and 20 mrad of visual field; which correspond to outer beam diameters of roughly 70, 160, and 300 μm, respectively, on the primate retina. Annular beam profiles at the retinal plane were achieved using a telescopic imaging system, with the focal properties of the eye represented as an equivalent thin lens, and all annular beam profiles had a 37% central obscuration. As a check on experimental data, theoretical MVL-ED50 thresholds for annular beam exposures were calculated using the Thompson-Gerstman granular model of laser-induced thermal damage to the retina. Threshold calculations were performed for the three experimental beam diameters and for an intermediate case with an outer beam diameter of 230 μm. Results indicate that the threshold vs. spot size trends, for annular beams, are similar to the trends for top hat beams determined in a previous study; i.e., the threshold dose varies with the retinal image area for larger image sizes. The model correctly predicts the threshold vs. spot size trends seen in the biological data, for both annular and top hat retinal beam profiles.

High-rep-rate Thomson scattering for LHD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

den Hartog, D. J.; Borchardt, M. T.; Holly, D. J.; Schmitz, O.; Yasuhara, R.; Yamada, I.; Funaba, H.; Osakabe, M.; Morisaki, T.

2017-10-01

A high-rep-rate pulse-burst laser system is being built for the LHD Thomson scattering (TS) diagnostic. This laser will have two operating scenarios, a fast-burst sequence of 15 kHz rep rate for at least 15 ms, and a slow-burst sequence of 1 kHz for at least 50 ms. There will be substantial flexibility in burst sequences for tailoring to experimental requirements. This new laser system will operate alongside the existing lasers in the LHD TS diagnostic, and will use the same beamline. This increase in temporal resolution capability complements the high spatial resolution (144 points) of the LHD TS diagnostic, providing unique measurement capability unmatched on any other fusion experiment. The new pulse-burst laser is a straightforward application of technology developed at UW-Madison, consisting of a Nd:YAG laser head with modular flashlamp drive units and a customized control system. Variable pulse-width drive of the flashlamps is accomplished by IGBT (insulated gate bipolar transistor) switching of electrolytic capacitor banks. Direct control of the laser Pockels cell drive enables optimal pulse energy extraction, producing >1.5 J q-switched pulses with 20 ns FWHM. Burst operation of this laser system will be used to capture fast time evolution of the electron temperature and density profiles during events such as ELMs, RMP perturbations, and various MHD modes. This work is supported by the U. S. Department of Energy and the National Institute for Fusion Science (Japan).

Bibliography of Soviet Laser Developments, No. 17, July - September 1974

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-01-29

A . N. Tokare and V . M. Usova (0). Effect of structural differ va. ences in flashlamps on the efficiency of solid state lasers...USATYUK, V.V. USHAKOV. A . Yt». USMANOV, A . G. USMANOV, R.G. USOVA , V . M. UZKIY. A . E. VALYASHKO, YE.G. VAREOLOMEYEV. A.A...ot’ power oulpul In a ruby laser with self-Q- switching. ZhPS, v . 20, no. 6, 1974, 987-989. 2, Kopvillem, U. Kh. , V .

Infant-mortality testing of high-energy-density capacitors used on Nova

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Merritt, B.T.; Whitham, K.

1983-01-01

Nova is a solid-state large laser for inertial-confinement fusion research. Its flashlamps are driven by a 60-MJ capacitor bank. Part of this bank is being built with high-energy-density capacitors, 52-..mu..F, 22 kV, 12.5 kJ. A total of 2645 of these capacitors have been purchased from two manufacturers. Each capacitor was infant-mortality tested. The first test consisted of a high-potential test, bushing-to-case, since these capacitors have dual bushings. Then the capacitors were discharged 500 times with circuit conditions approximating the capacitors normal flashlamp load. Failure of either of these tests or if the capacitor was leaking was cause for rejection.

Anatomical differences in response to treatment of port-wine stains by the pulsed dye laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Renfro, Lisa; Geronemus, Roy G.

1992-06-01

Two-hundred and fifty-seven patients (136 adults and 121 children) with port-wine stains of the head and neck were treated with the flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser. The head and neck was subdivided into 8 anatomical regions (forehead/temple, periorbital, medial cheek, nose, upper cutaneous lip, lateral cheek, chin and neck) which were independently evaluated for response. Response to treatment was found to be associated with the anatomical location of the lesion; in both adults and children the mid-facial region (medial cheek, nose and upper cutaneous lip) responded less favorably to treatment than the other regions of the head and neck (periorbital, forehead/temple, lateral cheek, neck and chin). In adults and children, mean percent lesional lightening of the mid-facial regions was 70.7% compared to 82.3% of the other regions of the head and neck with an estimated difference of 11.6% (95% confidence interval: 8.7% - 14.6%). The mean number of treatments for adults was 3.7, while this number in children was 3.9. All side effects were transient, and included cutaneous depressions, hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation.

Time-resolved measurements of statistics for a Nd:YAG laser.

PubMed

Hubschmid, W; Bombach, R; Gerber, T

1994-08-20

Time-resolved measurements of the fluctuating intensity of a multimode frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser have been performed. For various operating conditions the enhancement factors in nonlinear optical processes that use a fluctuating instead of a single-mode laser have been determined up to the sixth order. In the case of reduced flash-lamp excitation and a switched-off laser amplifier, the intensity fluctuations agree with the normalized Gaussian model for the fluctuations of the fundamental frequency, whereas strong deviations are found under usual operating conditions. The frequencydoubled light has in the latter case enhancement factors not so far from values of Gaussian statistics.

The high-power iodine laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brederlow, G.; Fill, E.; Witte, K. J.

The book provides a description of the present state of the art concerning the iodine laser, giving particular attention to the design and operation of pulsed high-power iodine lasers. The basic features of the laser are examined, taking into account aspects of spontaneous emission lifetime, hyperfine structure, line broadening and line shifts, stimulated emission cross sections, the influence of magnetic fields, sublevel relaxation, the photodissociation of alkyl iodides, flashlamp technology, excitation in a direct discharge, chemical excitation, and questions regarding the chemical kinetics of the photodissociation iodine laser. The principles of high-power operation are considered along with aspects of beam quality and losses, the design and layout of an iodine laser system, the scalability and prospects of the iodine laser, and the design of the single-beam Asterix III laser.

ManPortable and UGV LIVAR: advances in sensor suite integration bring improvements to target observation and identification for the electronic battlefield

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lynam, Jeff R.

2001-09-01

A more highly integrated, electro-optical sensor suite using Laser Illuminated Viewing and Ranging (LIVAR) techniques is being developed under the Army Advanced Concept Technology- II (ACT-II) program for enhanced manportable target surveillance and identification. The ManPortable LIVAR system currently in development employs a wide-array of sensor technologies that provides the foot-bound soldier and UGV significant advantages and capabilities in lightweight, fieldable, target location, ranging and imaging systems. The unit incorporates a wide field-of-view, 5DEG x 3DEG, uncooled LWIR passive sensor for primary target location. Laser range finding and active illumination is done with a triggered, flash-lamp pumped, eyesafe micro-laser operating in the 1.5 micron region, and is used in conjunction with a range-gated, electron-bombarded CCD digital camera to then image the target objective in a more- narrow, 0.3$DEG, field-of-view. Target range determination is acquired using the integrated LRF and a target position is calculated using data from other onboard devices providing GPS coordinates, tilt, bank and corrected magnetic azimuth. Range gate timing and coordinated receiver optics focus control allow for target imaging operations to be optimized. The onboard control electronics provide power efficient, system operations for extended field use periods from the internal, rechargeable battery packs. Image data storage, transmission, and processing performance capabilities are also being incorporated to provide the best all-around support, for the electronic battlefield, in this type of system. The paper will describe flash laser illumination technology, EBCCD camera technology with flash laser detection system, and image resolution improvement through frame averaging.

A Laser Spark Plug Ignition System for a Stationary Lean-Burn Natural Gas Reciprocating Engine

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McIntyre, D. L.

To meet the ignition system needs of large bore, high pressure, lean burn, natural gas engines a side pumped, passively Q-switched, Nd:YAG laser was developed and tested. The laser was designed to produce the optical intensities needed to initiate ignition in a lean burn, high compression engine. The laser and associated optics were designed with a passive Q-switch to eliminate the need for high voltage signaling and associated equipment. The laser was diode pumped to eliminate the need for high voltage flash lamps which have poor pumping efficiency. The independent and dependent parameters of the laser were identified and exploredmore » in specific combinations that produced consistent robust sparks in laboratory air. Prior research has shown that increasing gas pressure lowers the breakdown threshold for laser initiated ignition. The laser has an overall geometry of 57x57x152 mm with an output beam diameter of approximately 3 mm. The experimentation used a wide range of optical and electrical input parameters that when combined produced ignition in laboratory air. The results show a strong dependence of the output parameters on the output coupler reflectivity, Q-switch initial transmission, and gain media dopant concentration. As these three parameters were lowered the output performance of the laser increased leading to larger more brilliant sparks. The results show peak power levels of up to 3MW and peak focal intensities of up to 560 GW/cm 2. Engine testing was performed on a Ricardo Proteus single cylinder research engine. The goal of the engine testing was to show that the test laser performs identically to the commercially available flashlamp pumped actively Q-switched laser used in previous laser ignition testing. The engine testing consisted of a comparison of the in-cylinder, and emissions behavior of the engine using each of the lasers as an ignition system. All engine parameters were kept as constant as possilbe while the equivalence ratio (fueling), and hence the engine load, was varied between 0.8, 0.9, and 1.0. The test laser was constructed with a 30% output coupler, 32% Q-switch initial transmission, and a 0.5% Nd concentration rod all pumped by approximately 1000 Watts of optical power. The test laser single mode output pulse had an energy of approximately 23 mJ, with a pulsewidth of approximately 10 ns, and an M2 value of 6.55. This output produced focal intensity of approximately 270 GW/cm 2 with the modified on-engine optical arrangement. The commercial laser had similar output parameters and both laser systems operated the engine with similar results. Due to the shortening of the focal length of the on-engine optical setup both laser systems produced a spark well within the optical transfer cavity of the laser optics to spark plug adaptor. This shrouded spark led to a very long ignition delay and retarded combustion timing for all three values of equivalence ratio. This was evidenced by the in-cylinder pressure traces and the HRR waveforms. The emissions data indicate that both lasers produced very similar combustion. The ignition delay caused by the shrouded spark cause most of the combustion to happen after TDC which lead to poor combustion that produced high levels of CO and THC. The novelty of this work lies in the combination of the laser parameters to create a single high peak power laser output pulse for use as a spark ignition source. Similar configurations have been investigated in the literature but for different applications such as multiple output pulse trains for various industrial and communications applications. Another point of novelty is the investigation of the laser medium concentration on the output characteristics of a passively Q-switched laser system. This work has shown that lowering the Neodymium concentration in the active media within a passively Q-switched laser produces higher output energy values. This is significant because an actively Q-switched laser shows the opposite affect when the active ion concentration is varied.« less

LASER APPLICATIONS AND OTHER TOPICS IN QUANTUM ELECTRONICS: Generation of singlet oxygen in fullerene-containing media: 1. Photodesorption of singlet oxygen from fullerene-containing surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belousova, I. M.; Belousov, V. P.; Danilov, O. B.; Ermakov, A. V.; Kiselev, V. M.; Kislyakov, I. M.; Sosnov, E. N.

2008-03-01

It is shown that upon irradiation of fullerene-containing surfaces by laser or flashlamp pulses, oxygen adsorbed by these surfaces efficiently escapes to the gas phase. The observation of luminescence pulses in the spectral region of 762 and 1268 nm confirms the presence of oxygen molecules in the excited singlet state in the desorbed oxygen. The conditions for optimisation of the efficiency of singlet-oxygen production are studied. It is shown that singlet oxygen at the concentration sufficient for obtaining operation of a fullerene-oxygen-iodine laser can be produced in this way.

Long pulsed dye laser treatment of facial wrinkles.

PubMed

Tay, Yong-Kwang; Khoo, Boo-Peng; Tan, Eileen; Kwok, Colin

2004-11-01

The flashlamp pulsed dye laser has been used in the treatment of rhytids. To evaluate the efficacy of the long pulsed dye laser in the treatment of mild to moderate wrinkles in Asian patients. Wrinkles on one half of the face in 10 subjects were treated with the long pulsed dye laser (595 nm, 10 mm spot size, 10 ms, 7 J/cm2, 40 ms spray, 40 ms delay, single-pass, 30% overlap) with the other side serving as a control. A total of three treatments were given at 2 monthly intervals. The following sites were treated: periorbital area, six patients; forehead, two patients; cheek, two patients. No preoperative anesthesia or postoperative treatment were used. Clinical photographs were taken before and after each treatment, and analysis was undertaken through photographic evaluation by non-treating physicians. At 2 months after the last treatment, the clinical improvement of rhytids was noted in all patients compared with baseline. Four subjects had mild improvement (< or = 25%), five had moderate improvement (26-50%) and one had marked improvement (51-75%). The periorbital area was more responsive to treatment compared with the other sites. No clinical changes were noted in the control areas. No adverse effects were reported except for transient mild erythema in two patients which lasted for up to an hour. Nine patients were somewhat satisfied with the treatment and one was highly satisfied. All wanted the other half of the face to be treated. Treatment with a non-ablative 595 nm flashlamp pulsed dye laser can lead to mild to moderate clinical improvement in class I-II rhytids with minimal to no side effects in patients with darker skin types.

High Pulse Energy Flashlamp Pumpable Laser Dyes

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-04-09

on a large scale, and the difficult alkylation to 35 accomplished with 1-iodopropane with sodium hydroxide in acetone. Coupling the Grignard reagent ...dialkylated with 4-(chloromethyl)stilbene (47), which recently became available from Aldrich, to give 48b. The attempt to couple the Grignard reagent from 4...search turned up a useful procedure for coupling aryl Grignard reagents with benzyl halides, the process in Scheme E was largely completed. The Grignard

EMERGING TECHNOLOGY REPORT: DESTRUCTION OF ORGANIC CONTAMINANTS IN AIR USING ADVANCED ULTRAVIOLET FLASHLAMPS

EPA Science Inventory

This paper describes a new process for photo-oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in air using an advanced ultraviolet source, a Purus xenon flashlamp. The flashlamps have greater output at 200-250 nm than medium-pressure mercury lamps at the same power and therefore ca...

High-energy, tunable, mid-infrared, picosecond optical parametric generation in CdSiP2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chaitanya Kumar, S.; Jelínek, M.; Baudisch, M.; Zawilski, K. T.; Schunemann, P. G.; Kubecek, V.; Biegert, J.; Ebrahim-Zadeh, M.

2012-06-01

We report a tunable, high-energy, single-pass, optical parametric generator (OPG) based on the new nonlinear material, cadmium silicon phosphide, CdSiP2. The OPG is pumped by a laboratory designed cavity-dumped passively mode-locked, diode-pumped, Nd:YAG oscillator, providing 25 μJ pulses in 20 ps at 5 Hz. The pump energy is further boosted by a flashlamp-pumped Nd:YAG amplifier to 2.5 mJ. The OPG is temperature tunable over 1263-1286 nm (23 nm) in the signal and 6153-6731 nm (578 nm) in the idler, corresponding to a total tuning range of 601 nm. Using the single-pass OPG configuration, we have generated signal energy as high as 636 μJ at 1283 nm, together with an idler energy of 33 μJ at 6234 nm, for 2.1 mJ of input pump energy. The signal pulses generated from the OPG have a Gaussian pulse duration of 24 ps and an FWHM spectral bandwidth of 10.4 nm at central wavelength of 1276 nm. The corresponding idler spectrum has an FWHM bandwidth of 140 nm centered at 6404 nm.

Two-wavelength single laser CH and CH(4) imaging in a lifted turbulent diffusion flame.

PubMed

Namazian, M; Schmitt, R L; Long, M B

1988-09-01

A new technique has been developed which allows simultaneous 2-D mapping of CH and CH 4 in a turbulent methane flame. A flashlamp-pumped dye laser using two back mirrors produces output at 431.5 and 444 nm simultaneously. The 431.5-nm line is used to excite the (0, 0) band of the A(2)Delta-X(2)Pi system of CH, and the fluorescence of the (0, 1) transition is observed at 489 nm. Coincidentally, the spontaneous Raman scattering from CH(4) also occurs near 489 nm for a 431.5-nm excitation. To separate the CH(4) and CH contributions, the 444-nm line is used to produce a spontaneous Raman signal from CH(4) that is spectrally separated from the CH fluorescence. Subtraction of the signals generated by the 431.5- and 444-nm wavelength beams yields separate measurements of CH(4) and CH. Raman-scattered light records the instantaneous distribution of the fuel, and simultaneously the CH fluorescence indicates the location of the flame zone. The resulting composite images provide important insight on the interrelationship between fuel-air mixing and subsequent combustion.M. Namazian is with Altex Technologies Corporation, 109 Via De Tesoros, Los Gatos, California 95030; R. L. Schmitt is with Sandia National Laboratories, Combustion Research Facility, Livermore, California 94550; and M. B. Long is with Yale University, Department of Mechanical Engineering, New Haven, Connecticut 06520.

Novel flashlamp-based time-resolved fluorescence microscope reduces autofluorescence for 30-fold contrast enhancement in environmental samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Connally, Russell; Veal, Duncan; Piper, James A.

2003-07-01

The abundance of naturally fluorescing components (autofluorophors) encountered in environmentally sourced samples can greatly hinder the detection and identification of fluorescently labeled target using fluorescence microscopy. Time-resolved fluorescence microscopy (TRFM) is a technique that reduces the effects of autofluorescence through precisely controlled time delays. Lanthanide chelates have fluorescence lifetimes many orders of magnitude greater than typical autofluorophors, and persist in their luminescence long after autofluorescence has ceased. An intense short pulse of (UV) light is used to excite fluorescence in the sample and after a short delay period the longer persisting fluorescence from the chelate is captured with an image-intensified CCD camera. The choice of pulsed excitation source for TRFM has a large impact on the price and performance of the instrument. A flashlamp with a short pulse duration was selected for our instrument because of the high spectral energy in the UV region and short pulse length. However, flash output decays with an approximate lifetime of 18μs and the TRFM requires a long-lived chelate to ensure probe fluorescence is still visible after decay of the flash plasma. We synthesized a recently reported fluorescent chelate (BHHCT) and conjugated it to a monoclonal antibody directed against the water-borne parasite Giardia lamblia. Fluorescence lifetime of the construct was determined to be 339μs +/- 14μs and provided a 45-fold enhancement of labeled Giardia over background using a gate delay of 100μs. Despite the sub-optimal decay characteristics of the light pulse, flashlamps have many advantages compared to optical chopper wheels and modulated lasers. Their low cost, lack of vibration, ease of interface and small footprint are important factors to consider in TRFM design.

Compact and highly efficient laser pump cavity

DOEpatents

Chang, Jim J.; Bass, Isaac L.; Zapata, Luis E.

1999-01-01

A new, compact, side-pumped laser pump cavity design which uses non-conventional optics for injection of laser-diode light into a laser pump chamber includes a plurality of elongated light concentration channels. In one embodiment, the light concentration channels are compound parabolic concentrators (CPC) which have very small exit apertures so that light will not escape from the pumping chamber and will be multiply reflected through the laser rod. This new design effectively traps the pump radiation inside the pump chamber that encloses the laser rod. It enables more uniform laser pumping and highly effective recycle of pump radiation, leading to significantly improved laser performance. This new design also effectively widens the acceptable radiation wavelength of the diodes, resulting in a more reliable laser performance with lower cost.

Cleanliness for the NIF 1ω Laser Amplifiers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Spaeth, M. L.; Manes, K. R.; Honig, J.

During the years before the National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser system, a set of generally accepted cleaning procedures had been developed for the large 1ω amplifiers of an inertial confinement fusion laser, and up until 1999 similar procedures were planned for NIF. Several parallel sets of test results were obtained from 1992 to 1999 for large amplifiers using these accepted cleaning procedures in the Beamlet physics test bed and in the Amplifier Module Prototype Laboratory (AMPLAB), a four-slab-high prototype large amplifier structure. Both of these showed damage to their slab surfaces that, if projected to operating conditions for NIF, wouldmore » lead to higher than acceptable slab-refurbishment rates. Finally, this study tracks the search for the smoking gun origin of this damage and describes the solution employed in NIF for avoiding flashlamp-induced aerosol damage to its 1ω amplifier slabs.« less

Cleanliness for the NIF 1ω Laser Amplifiers

DOE PAGES

Spaeth, M. L.; Manes, K. R.; Honig, J.

2017-03-23

During the years before the National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser system, a set of generally accepted cleaning procedures had been developed for the large 1ω amplifiers of an inertial confinement fusion laser, and up until 1999 similar procedures were planned for NIF. Several parallel sets of test results were obtained from 1992 to 1999 for large amplifiers using these accepted cleaning procedures in the Beamlet physics test bed and in the Amplifier Module Prototype Laboratory (AMPLAB), a four-slab-high prototype large amplifier structure. Both of these showed damage to their slab surfaces that, if projected to operating conditions for NIF, wouldmore » lead to higher than acceptable slab-refurbishment rates. Finally, this study tracks the search for the smoking gun origin of this damage and describes the solution employed in NIF for avoiding flashlamp-induced aerosol damage to its 1ω amplifier slabs.« less

High-Reliability Pump Module for Non-Planar Ring Oscillator Laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Duncan T.; Qiu, Yueming; Wilson, Daniel W.; Dubovitsky, Serge; Forouhar, Siamak

2007-01-01

We propose and have demonstrated a prototype high-reliability pump module for pumping a Non-Planar Ring Oscillator (NPRO) laser suitable for space missions. The pump module consists of multiple fiber-coupled single-mode laser diodes and a fiber array micro-lens array based fiber combiner. The reported Single-Mode laser diode combiner laser pump module (LPM) provides a higher normalized brightness at the combined beam than multimode laser diode based LPMs. A higher brightness from the pump source is essential for efficient NPRO laser pumping and leads to higher reliability because higher efficiency requires a lower operating power for the laser diodes, which in turn increases the reliability and lifetime of the laser diodes. Single-mode laser diodes with Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) stabilized wavelength permit the pump module to be operated without a thermal electric cooler (TEC) and this further improves the overall reliability of the pump module. The single-mode laser diode LPM is scalable in terms of the number of pump diodes and is capable of combining hundreds of fiber-coupled laser diodes. In the proof-of-concept demonstration, an e-beam written diffractive micro lens array, a custom fiber array, commercial 808nm single mode laser diodes, and a custom NPRO laser head are used. The reliability of the proposed LPM is discussed.

Three-dimensional kinetic and fluid dynamic modeling and three iterative algorithms for side-pumped alkali vapor lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Binglin; Xu, Xingqi; Xia, Chunsheng; Pan, Bailiang

2017-11-01

Combining the kinetic and fluid dynamic processes in static and flowing-gas diode-pumped alkali vapor lasers, a comprehensive physical model with three cyclically iterative algorithms for simulating the three-dimensional pump and laser intensities as well as temperature distribution in the vapor cell of side-pumped alkali vapor lasers is established. Comparison with measurement of a static side-pumped cesium vapor laser with a diffuse type hollow cylinder cavity, and with classical and modified models is made. Influences of flowed velocity and pump power on laser power are calculated and analyzed. The results have demonstrated that for high-power side-pumped alkali vapor lasers, it is necessary to take into account the three-dimensional distributions of pump energy, laser energy and temperature in the cell to simultaneously obtain the thermal features and output characteristics. Therefore, the model can deepen the understanding of the complete kinetic and fluid dynamic mechanisms of a side-pumped alkali vapor laser, and help with its further experimental design.

Direct solar-pumped iodine laser amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Han, K. S.

1985-01-01

This semiannual progress report covers the period from April 1, 1985 to Sept. 30, 1985 under NASA grant NAS1-441 entitled direct solar pumped iodine laser amplifier. During this period the parametric studies of the iodine laser oscillator pumped by a Vortek simulator was carried out before the amplifier studies. The amplifier studies are postponed to the extended period following completion of the parametric studies. In addition, the kinetic modeling of a solar pumped iodine laser amplifier, and the experimental work for a solar pumped dye laser amplifier are in progress. This report contains three parts: (1) the radiation characteristics of solar simulator and the parametric characteristics of photodissociation iodine laser continuously pumped by a Vortek solar simulator; (2) kinetic modeling of a solar pumped iodine laser amplifier; and (3) the study of the dye laser amplifier pumped by a Tamarack solar simulator.

Comparative study of Nd:KGW lasers pumped at 808 nm and 877 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Ke; Ge, Wen-Qi; Zhao, Tian-Zhuo; He, Jian-Guo; Feng, Chen-Yong; Fan, Zhong-Wei

2015-10-01

The laser performance and thermal analysis of Nd:KGW laser continuously pumped by 808 nm and 877 nm are comparatively investigated. Output power of 670 mW and 1587 mW, with nearly TEM00 mode, are achieved respectively at 808 nm pump and 877 nm pump. Meanwhile, a high-power passively Q-switched Nd:KGW/Cr4+:YAG laser pumped at 877 nm is demonstrated. An average output power of 1495 mW is obtained at pump power of 5.22 W while the laser is operating at repetition of 53.17 kHz. We demonstrate that 877 nm diode laser is a more potential pump source for Nd:KGW lasers.

Direct solar-pumped iodine laser amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Han, K. S.

1986-01-01

During this period the parametric studies of the iodine laser oscillator pumped by a Vortek simulator were carried out before amplifier studies. The amplifier studies are postponed to the extended period after completing the parametric studies. In addition, the kinetic modeling of a solar-pumped iodine laser amplifier, and the experimental work for a solar pumped dye laser amplifier are in progress. This report contains three parts: (1) a 10 W CW iodine laser pumped by a Vortek solar simulator; (2) kinetic modeling to predict the time to lasing threshold, lasing time, and energy output of solar-pumped iodine laser; and (3) the study of the dye laser amplifier pumped by a Tamarack solar simulator.

Solar pumped laser technology options for space power transmission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Conway, E. J.

1986-01-01

An overview of long-range options for in-space laser power transmission is presented. The focus is on the new technology and research status of solar-pumped lasers and their solar concentration needs. The laser options include gas photodissociation lasers, optically-pumped solid-state lasers, and blackbody-pumped transfer lasers. The paper concludes with a summary of current research thrusts.

Four-Pass Coupler for Laser-Diode-Pumped Solid-State Laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coyle, Donald B.

2008-01-01

A four-pass optical coupler affords increased (in comparison with related prior two-pass optical couplers) utilization of light generated by a laser diode in side pumping of a solid-state laser slab. The original application for which this coupler was conceived involves a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) crystal slab, which, when pumped by a row of laser diodes at a wavelength of 809 nm, lases at a wavelength of 1,064 nm. Heretofore, typically, a thin laser slab has been pumped in two passes, the second pass occurring by virtue of reflection of pump light from a highly reflective thin film on the side opposite the side through which the pump light enters. In two-pass pumping, a Nd:YAG slab having a thickness of 2 mm (which is typical) absorbs about 84 percent of the 809-nm pump light power, leaving about 16 percent of the pump light power to travel back toward the laser diodes. This unused power can cause localized heating of the laser diodes, thereby reducing their lifetimes. Moreover, if the slab is thinner than 2 mm, then even more unused power travels back toward the laser diodes. The four-pass optical coupler captures most of this unused pump light and sends it back to the laser slab for two more passes. As a result, the slab absorbs more pump light, as though it were twice as thick. The gain and laser cavity beam quality of a smaller laser slab in conjunction with this optical coupler can thus be made comparable to those of a larger two-pass-pumped laser slab.

Laser systems configured to output a spectrally-consolidated laser beam and related methods

DOEpatents

Koplow, Jeffrey P [San Ramon, CA

2012-01-10

A laser apparatus includes a plurality of pumps each of which is configured to emit a corresponding pump laser beam having a unique peak wavelength. The laser apparatus includes a spectral beam combiner configured to combine the corresponding pump laser beams into a substantially spatially-coherent pump laser beam having a pump spectrum that includes the unique peak wavelengths, and first and second selectively reflective elements spaced from each other to define a lasing cavity including a lasing medium therein. The lasing medium generates a plurality of gain spectra responsive to absorbing the pump laser beam. Each gain spectrum corresponds to a respective one of the unique peak wavelengths of the substantially spatially-coherent pump laser beam and partially overlaps with all other ones of the gain spectra. The reflective elements are configured to promote emission of a laser beam from the lasing medium with a peak wavelength common to each gain spectrum.

Vacuum ultraviolet light production by nuclear irradiation of liquid and gaseous xenon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baldwin, G. C.

1981-01-01

Recent Los Alamos investigations suggest that a liquefied noble element may be the long-sought medium for a nuclear-excited laser or flashlamp. Research is needed to confirm this finding and to provide a basis for design and application studies. Quantitative and qualitative information are needed on the nature and behavior of the excited species, the effects of impurities and additives in the liquid phase under nuclear excitation, and the existence and magnitudes of nonlinear effects. Questions that need to be addressed and the most appropriate types of facilities for this task are identified.

Advanced helium magnetometer for space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Slocum, Robert E.

1987-01-01

The goal of this effort was demonstration of the concepts for an advanced helium magnetometer which meets the demands of future NASA earth orbiting, interplanetary, solar, and interstellar missions. The technical effort focused on optical pumping of helium with tunable solid state lasers. We were able to demonstrate the concept of a laser pumped helium magnetometer with improved accuracy, low power, and sensitivity of the order of 1 pT. A number of technical approaches were investigated for building a solid state laser tunable to the helium absorption line at 1083 nm. The laser selected was an Nd-doped LNA crystal pumped by a diode laser. Two laboratory versions of the lanthanum neodymium hexa-aluminate (LNA) laser were fabricated and used to conduct optical pumping experiments in helium and demonstrate laser pumped magnetometer concepts for both the low field vector mode and the scalar mode of operation. A digital resonance spectrometer was designed and built in order to evaluate the helium resonance signals and observe scalar magnetometer operation. The results indicate that the laser pumped sensor in the VHM mode is 45 times more sensitive than a lamp pumped sensor for identical system noise levels. A study was made of typical laser pumped resonance signals in the conventional magnetic resonance mode. The laser pumped sensor was operated as a scalar magnetometer, and it is concluded that magnetometers with 1 pT sensitivity can be achieved with the use of laser pumping and stable laser pump sources.

Designing a Broadband Pump for High-Quality Micro-Lasers via Modified Net Radiation Method.

PubMed

Nechayev, Sergey; Reusswig, Philip D; Baldo, Marc A; Rotschild, Carmel

2016-12-07

High-quality micro-lasers are key ingredients in non-linear optics, communication, sensing and low-threshold solar-pumped lasers. However, such micro-lasers exhibit negligible absorption of free-space broadband pump light. Recently, this limitation was lifted by cascade energy transfer, in which the absorption and quality factor are modulated with wavelength, enabling non-resonant pumping of high-quality micro-lasers and solar-pumped laser to operate at record low solar concentration. Here, we present a generic theoretical framework for modeling the absorption, emission and energy transfer of incoherent radiation between cascade sensitizer and laser gain media. Our model is based on linear equations of the modified net radiation method and is therefore robust, fast converging and has low complexity. We apply this formalism to compute the optimal parameters of low-threshold solar-pumped lasers. It is revealed that the interplay between the absorption and self-absorption of such lasers defines the optimal pump absorption below the maximal value, which is in contrast to conventional lasers for which full pump absorption is desired. Numerical results are compared to experimental data on a sensitized Nd 3+ :YAG cavity, and quantitative agreement with theoretical models is found. Our work modularizes the gain and sensitizing components and paves the way for the optimal design of broadband-pumped high-quality micro-lasers and efficient solar-pumped lasers.

Designing a Broadband Pump for High-Quality Micro-Lasers via Modified Net Radiation Method

PubMed Central

Nechayev, Sergey; Reusswig, Philip D.; Baldo, Marc A.; Rotschild, Carmel

2016-01-01

High-quality micro-lasers are key ingredients in non-linear optics, communication, sensing and low-threshold solar-pumped lasers. However, such micro-lasers exhibit negligible absorption of free-space broadband pump light. Recently, this limitation was lifted by cascade energy transfer, in which the absorption and quality factor are modulated with wavelength, enabling non-resonant pumping of high-quality micro-lasers and solar-pumped laser to operate at record low solar concentration. Here, we present a generic theoretical framework for modeling the absorption, emission and energy transfer of incoherent radiation between cascade sensitizer and laser gain media. Our model is based on linear equations of the modified net radiation method and is therefore robust, fast converging and has low complexity. We apply this formalism to compute the optimal parameters of low-threshold solar-pumped lasers. It is revealed that the interplay between the absorption and self-absorption of such lasers defines the optimal pump absorption below the maximal value, which is in contrast to conventional lasers for which full pump absorption is desired. Numerical results are compared to experimental data on a sensitized Nd3+:YAG cavity, and quantitative agreement with theoretical models is found. Our work modularizes the gain and sensitizing components and paves the way for the optimal design of broadband-pumped high-quality micro-lasers and efficient solar-pumped lasers. PMID:27924844

High power high repetition rate VCSEL array side-pumped pulsed blue laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Leeuwen, Robert; Zhao, Pu; Chen, Tong; Xu, Bing; Watkins, Laurence; Seurin, Jean-Francois; Xu, Guoyang; Miglo, Alexander; Wang, Qing; Ghosh, Chuni

2013-03-01

High power, kW-class, 808 nm pump modules based on the vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) technology were developed for side-pumping of solid-state lasers. Two 1.2 kW VCSEL pump modules were implemented in a dual side-pumped Q-switched Nd:YAG laser operating at 946 nm. The laser output was frequency doubled in a BBO crystal to produce pulsed blue light. With 125 μs pump pulses at a 300 Hz repetition rate 6.1 W QCW 946 nm laser power was produced. The laser power was limited by thermal lensing in the Nd:YAG rod.

Study on the amplifier experiment of end-pumped long pulse slab laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Quanwei; Chen, Xiaoming; Jiang, JianFeng; Pang, Yu; Tong, Lixin; Li, Mi; Hu, Hao; Lv, Wenqiang; Gao, Qingsong; Tang, Chun

2018-03-01

The amplifier experiment research of end-pumped long pulse slab laser is developed, the results of out-put energy, optical-optical efficiency and pulse waveform are obtained at different experiment conditions, such as peak pumped power, amplifier power and pumped pulse width. The seed laser is CW fundamental transverse-mode operation fiber laser, the laser medium is composited Nd:YAG slab. Under end-pumped and the 2 passes, the laser obtain 7.65J out-put energy and 43.1% optical-optical efficiency with 45kW peak-pumped power and 386μs pump pulse width. The experimental results provide the basic for the optimization design to high frequency, high energy and high beam-quality slab lasers.

Method and device for remotely monitoring an area using a low peak power optical pump

DOEpatents

Woodruff, Steven D.; Mcintyre, Dustin L.; Jain, Jinesh C.

2014-07-22

A method and device for remotely monitoring an area using a low peak power optical pump comprising one or more pumping sources, one or more lasers; and an optical response analyzer. Each pumping source creates a pumping energy. The lasers each comprise a high reflectivity mirror, a laser media, an output coupler, and an output lens. Each laser media is made of a material that emits a lasing power when exposed to pumping energy. Each laser media is optically connected to and positioned between a corresponding high reflectivity mirror and output coupler along a pumping axis. Each output coupler is optically connected to a corresponding output lens along the pumping axis. The high reflectivity mirror of each laser is optically connected to an optical pumping source from the one or more optical pumping sources via an optical connection comprising one or more first optical fibers.

Efficiency and threshold pump intensity of CW solar-pumped solid-state lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hwang, In H.; Lee, Ja H.

1991-01-01

The authors consider the relation between the threshold pumping intensity, the material properties, the resonator parameters, and the ultimate slope efficiencies of various solid-state laser materials for solar pumping. They clarify the relation between the threshold pump intensity and the material parameters and the relation between the ultimate slope efficiency and the laser resonator parameters such that a design criterion for the solar-pumped solid-state laser can be established. Among the laser materials evaluated, alexandrite has the highest slope efficiency of about 12.6 percent; however, it does not seem to be practical for a solar-pumped laser application because of its high threshold pump intensity. Cr:Nd:GSGG is the most promising for solar-pumped lasing. Its threshold pump intensity is about 100 air-mass-zero (AM0) solar constants and its slope efficiency is about 12 percent when thermal deformation is completely prevented.

XeCl laser pumped iodine laser using t-C4F9I

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hwang, In Heon; Han, Kwang S.

1989-01-01

An iodine photodissociation laser using t-C4F9I as the active material was pumped by an XeCl laser. An iodine laser output energy of 3 mJ with pulse duration of 25 ns was obtained when the pumping pulse energy was 80 mJ, the iodide pressure was 70 torr, and the reflectance of the output mirror was 85 percent. The high pumping efficiency and low threshold pump power achieved in this experiment are attributable to the high absorption cross section at the pump laser wavelength (308 nm) of the iodide used.

Pump Diode Characterization for an Unstable Diode-Pumped Alkali Laser Resonator

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

2003. Petersen, A., and R. Lane, Second harmonic operation of diode-pumped Rb vapor lasers , Proc. of SPIE, 7005, 2008. Siegman , A. E., Lasers ...University Science Books, Sausalito, CA, 1986. Siegman , A. E., Defining, measuring and optimizing laser beam quality, Proc. of SPIE, 1868, 1993. Steck, D...PUMP DIODE CHARACTERIZATION FOR AN UNSTABLE DIODE-PUMPED ALKALI LASER RESONATOR THESIS Chad T. Taguba, Master Sergeant, USAF AFIT-ENP-13-M-33

Estimating Temperature Rise Due to Flashlamp Heating Using Irreversible Temperature Indicators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshti, Ajay M.

1999-01-01

One of the nondestructive thermography inspection techniques uses photographic flashlamps. The flashlamps provide a short duration (about 0.005 sec) heat pulse. The short burst of energy results in a momentary rise in the surface temperature of the part. The temperature rise may be detrimental to the top layer of the part being exposed. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure the nondestructive nature of the technique. Amount of the temperature rise determines whether the flashlamp heating would be detrimental to the part. A direct method for the temperature measurement is to use of an infrared pyrometer that has much shorter response time than the flash duration. In this paper, an alternative technique is given using the irreversible temperature 'indicators. This is an indirect technique and it measures the temperature rise on the irreversible temperature indicators and computes the incident heat flux. Once the heat flux is known, the temperature rise on the part can be computed. A wedge shaped irreversible temperature indicator for measuring the heat flux is proposed. A procedure is given to use the wedge indicator.

Effect of laser speckle on light from laser diode-pumped phosphor-converted light sources.

PubMed

Aquino, Felipe; Jadwisienczak, Wojciech M; Rahman, Faiz

2017-01-10

Laser diode (LD) pumped white light sources are being developed as an alternative to light-emitting diode-pumped sources for high efficiency and/or high brightness applications. While several performance metrics of laser-pumped phosphor-converted light sources have been investigated, the effect of laser speckle has not been sufficiently explored. This paper describes our experimental studies on how laser speckle affects the behavior of light from laser-excited phosphor lamps. A single LD pumping a phosphor plate was the geometry explored in this work. Overall, our findings are that the down-converted light did not exhibit any speckle, whereas speckle was present in the residual pump light but much reduced from that in direct laser light. Furthermore, a thicker coating of small-grained phosphors served to effectively reduce speckle through static pump light diffusion in the phosphor coating. Our investigations showed that speckle is not of concern in illumination from LD-pumped phosphor-converted light sources.

Frequency-doubled DBR-tapered diode laser for direct pumping of Ti:sapphire lasers generating sub-20 fs pulses.

PubMed

Müller, André; Jensen, Ole Bjarlin; Unterhuber, Angelika; Le, Tuan; Stingl, Andreas; Hasler, Karl-Heinz; Sumpf, Bernd; Erbert, Götz; Andersen, Peter E; Petersen, Paul Michael

2011-06-20

For the first time a single-pass frequency doubled DBR-tapered diode laser suitable for pumping Ti:sapphire lasers generating ultrashort pulses is demonstrated. The maximum output powers achieved when pumping the Ti:sapphire laser are 110 mW (CW) and 82 mW (mode-locked) respectively at 1.2 W of pump power. This corresponds to a reduction in optical conversion efficiencies to 75% of the values achieved with a commercial diode pumped solid-state laser. However, the superior electro-optical efficiency of the diode laser improves the overall efficiency of the Ti:sapphire laser by a factor > 2. The optical spectrum emitted by the Ti:sapphire laser when pumped with our diode laser shows a spectral width of 112 nm (FWHM). Based on autocorrelation measurements, pulse widths of less than 20 fs can therefore be expected.

Lasant Materials for Blackbody-Pumped Lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deyoung, R. J. (Editor); Chen, K. Y. (Editor)

1985-01-01

Blackbody-pumped solar lasers are proposed to convert sunlight into laser power to provide future space power and propulsion needs. There are two classes of blackbody-pumped lasers. The direct cavity-pumped system in which the lasant molecule is vibrationally excited by the absorption of blackbody radiation and laser, all within the blackbody cavity. The other system is the transfer blackbody-pumped laser in which an absorbing molecule is first excited within the blackbody cavity, then transferred into a laser cavity when an appropriate lasant molecule is mixed. Collisional transfer of vibrational excitation from the absorbing to the lasing molecule results in laser emission. A workshop was held at NASA Langley Research Center to investigate new lasant materials for both of these blackbody systems. Emphasis was placed on the physics of molecular systems which would be appropriate for blackbody-pumped lasers.

Laser-diode-pumped 1319-nm monolithic non-planar ring single-frequency laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Qing; Gao, Chunqing; Zhao, Yan; Yang, Suhui; Wei, Guanghui; 2, Dongmei Hong

2003-10-01

Single-frequency 1319-nm laser was obtained by using a laser-diode-pumped monolithic Nd:YAG crystal with a non-planar ring oscillator (NPRO). When the NPRO laser was pumped by an 800-?m fiber coupled laser diode, the output power of the single-frequency 1319-nm laser was 220 mW, and the slope efficiency was 16%. With a 100-1m fiber coupled diode laser pumped, 99-mW single-frequency 1319-nm laser was obtained with a slope efficiency of 29%.

Thermal lens elimination by gradient-reduced zone coupling of optical beams

DOEpatents

Page, Ralph H.; Beach, Raymond J.

2000-01-01

A thermal gradient-reduced-zone laser includes a laser medium and an optically transparent plate with an index of refraction that is less than the index of refraction of the laser medium. The pump face of the laser medium is bonded to a surface of the optically transparent member. Pump light is directed through the transparent plate to optically pump the solid state laser medium. Heat conduction is mainly through the surface of the laser medium where the heat is introduced by the pump light. Heat flows in a direction opposite to that of the pump light because the side of the laser medium that is opposite to that of the pump face is not in thermal contact with a conductor and thus there is no heat flux (and hence, no temperature gradient), thus producing a thermal gradient-reduced zone. A laser cavity is formed around the laser medium such that laser light oscillating within the laser cavity reflects by total-internal-reflection from the interface between the pump face and the optically transparent plate and enters and exits through a thermal gradient-reduced zone.

High efficiency 2 micrometer laser utilizing wing-pumped Tm.sup.3+ and a laser diode array end-pumping architecture

DOEpatents

Beach, Raymond J.

1997-01-01

Wing pumping a Tm.sup.3+ doped, end pumped solid state laser generates 2 .mu.m laser radiation at high average powers with high efficiency. Using laser diode arrays to end-pump the laser rod or slab in the wing of the Tm.sup.3+ absorption band near 785 nm results in 2-for-1 quantum efficiency in Tm.sup.3+ because high Tm.sup.3+ concentrations can be used. Wing pumping allows the thermal power generated in the rod or slab to be distributed over a large enough volume to make thermal management practical in the laser gain medium even at high average power operation. The approach is applicable to CW, Q-switched, and rep-pulsed free-laser operation.

High efficiency 2 micrometer laser utilizing wing-pumped Tm{sup 3+} and a laser diode array end-pumping architecture

DOEpatents

Beach, R.J.

1997-11-18

Wing pumping a Tm{sup 3+} doped, end pumped solid state laser generates 2 {micro}m laser radiation at high average powers with high efficiency. Using laser diode arrays to end-pump the laser rod or slab in the wing of the Tm{sup 3+} absorption band near 785 nm results in 2-for-1 quantum efficiency in Tm{sup 3+} because high Tm{sup 3+} concentrations can be used. Wing pumping allows the thermal power generated in the rod or slab to be distributed over a large enough volume to make thermal management practical in the laser gain medium even at high average power operation. The approach is applicable to CW, Q-switched, and rep-pulsed free-laser operation. 7 figs.

Future directions in 980-nm pump lasers: submarine deployment to low-cost watt-class terrestrial pumps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gulgazov, Vadim N.; Jackson, Gordon S.; Lascola, Kevin M.; Major, Jo S.; Parke, Ross; Richard, Tim; Rossin, Victor V.; Zhang, Kai

1999-09-01

The demands of global bandwidth and distribution are rising rapidly as Internet usage grows. This fundamentally means that more photons are flowing within optical cables. While transmitting sources launches some optical power, the majority of the optical power that is present within modern telecommunication systems originates from optical amplifiers. In addition, modern optical amplifiers offer flat optical gain over broad wavelength bands, thus making possible dense wavelength de-multiplexing (DWDM) systems. Optical amplifier performance, and by extension the performance of the laser pumps that drive them, is central to the future growth of both optical transmission and distribution systems. Erbium-doped amplifiers currently dominate optical amplifier usage. These amplifiers absorb pump light at 980 nm and/or 1480 nm, and achieve gain at wavelengths around 1550 nm. 980 nm pumps achieve better noise figures and are therefore used for the amplification of small signals. Due to the quantum defect, 1480 nm lasers deliver more signal photon per incident photon. In addition, 1480 nm lasers are less expensive than 980 nm lasers. Thus, 1480 nm pump lasers are used for amplification in situations where noise is not critical. The combination of these traits leads to the situation where many amplifiers contain 980 nm lasers to pump the input section of the Er- doped fiber with 1480 nm lasers being used to pump the latter section of Er fiber. This can be thought of as using 980 nm lasers to power an optical pre-amplifier with the power amplification function being pump with 1480 nm radiation. This paper will focus on 980 nm pump lasers and the impact that advances in 980 nm pump technology will have on optical amplification systems. Currently, 980 nm technology is rapidly advancing in two areas, power and reliability. Improving reliability is becoming increasingly important as amplifiers move towards employing more pump lasers and using these pump lasers without redundancy. Since the failure rate allowable for an amplifier is not a function of the number of pumps employed in the amplifier, the allowable failure rate of an individual pump laser is decreasing for next-generation amplifiers. This will lead to specifications for terrestrial pumps well below 1000 FIT, and may lead to the case where high power amplifiers need laser pump reliability to approach 100 FIT. In addition, 980 nm laser diodes are now being deployed in submarine systems where failure rates lower than 100 FIT are commonly specified. It is obvious that both terrestrial and submarine markets are pushing allowable failure rates for pumps for optical amplifiers to continually decrease. A second push for improvement is in the output power of 980 nm pump modules. There exist a number of motivations for increasing the output power of pump lasers. First, each additional channel in a DWDM system requires additional power. To first order, a doubling in channel count implies a doubling in pump power. Second, larger amplifiers require multiple pumps. Higher output power from pump modules allows for fewer pumps, less complicated control systems and smaller size amplifiers. The discussion of this paper will focus on how current development progress of 980 nm laser diodes addresses these issues: better reliability and higher output powers.

Key techniques for space-based solar pumped semiconductor lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Yang; Xiong, Sheng-jun; Liu, Xiao-long; Han, Wei-hua

2014-12-01

In space, the absence of atmospheric turbulence, absorption, dispersion and aerosol factors on laser transmission. Therefore, space-based laser has important values in satellite communication, satellite attitude controlling, space debris clearing, and long distance energy transmission, etc. On the other hand, solar energy is a kind of clean and renewable resources, the average intensity of solar irradiation on the earth is 1353W/m2, and it is even higher in space. Therefore, the space-based solar pumped lasers has attracted much research in recent years, most research focuses on solar pumped solid state lasers and solar pumped fiber lasers. The two lasing principle is based on stimulated emission of the rare earth ions such as Nd, Yb, Cr. The rare earth ions absorb light only in narrow bands. This leads to inefficient absorption of the broad-band solar spectrum, and increases the system heating load, which make the system solar to laser power conversion efficiency very low. As a solar pumped semiconductor lasers could absorb all photons with energy greater than the bandgap. Thus, solar pumped semiconductor lasers could have considerably higher efficiencies than other solar pumped lasers. Besides, solar pumped semiconductor lasers has smaller volume chip, simpler structure and better heat dissipation, it can be mounted on a small satellite platform, can compose satellite array, which can greatly improve the output power of the system, and have flexible character. This paper summarizes the research progress of space-based solar pumped semiconductor lasers, analyses of the key technologies based on several application areas, including the processing of semiconductor chip, the design of small and efficient solar condenser, and the cooling system of lasers, etc. We conclude that the solar pumped vertical cavity surface-emitting semiconductor lasers will have a wide application prospects in the space.

Observation of enhanced thermal lensing due to near-Gaussian pump energy deposition in a laser-diode side-pumped Nd:YAG laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Welford, David; Rines, David M.; Dinerman, Bradley J.; Martinsen, Robert

1992-01-01

The authors report operation of a laser-diode side-pumped Nd:YAG laser with a novel pumping geometry that ensures efficient conversion of pump energy into the TEM00 mode. Significant enhancement of thermally induced lensing due to the near-Gaussian energy deposition profile of the pump radiation was observed. An induced lens of approximately 3.2-m focal length was measured at average incident pump powers of only 3.2 W (corresponding to a 0.6 W heat load).

Design investigation of solar powered lasers for space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taussig, R.; Bruzzone, C.; Quimby, D.; Nelson, L.; Christiansen, W.; Neice, S.; Cassady, P.; Pindroh, A.

1979-01-01

The feasibility of solar powered lasers for continuous operation in space power transmission was investigated. Laser power transmission in space over distances of 10 to 100 thousand kilometers appears possible. A variety of lasers was considered, including solar-powered GDLs and EDLs, and solar-pumped lasers. An indirect solar-pumped laser was investigated which uses a solar-heated black body cavity to pump the lasant. Efficiencies in the range of 10 to 20 percent are projected for these indirect optically pumped lasers.

Laser-diode pumped 40-W Yb:YAG ceramic laser.

PubMed

Hao, Qiang; Li, Wenxue; Pan, Haifeng; Zhang, Xiaoyi; Jiang, Benxue; Pan, Yubai; Zeng, Heping

2009-09-28

We demonstrated a high-power continuous-wave (CW) polycrystalline Yb:YAG ceramic laser pumped by fiber-pigtailed laser diode at 968 nm with 400 mum fiber core. The Yb:YAG ceramic laser performance was compared for different Yb(3+) ion concentrations in the ceramics by using a conventional end-pump laser cavity consisting of two flat mirrors with output couplers of different transmissions. A CW laser output of 40 W average power with M(2) factor of 5.8 was obtained with 5 mol% Yb concentration under 120 W incident pump power. This is to the best of our knowledge the highest output power in end-pumped bulk Yb:YAG ceramic laser.

High-efficient Nd:YAG microchip laser for optical surface scanning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Šulc, Jan; Jelínková, Helena; Nejezchleb, Karel; Škoda, Václav

2017-12-01

A CW operating, compact, high-power, high-efficient diode pumped 1064nm laser, based on Nd:YAG active medium, was developed for optical surface scanning and mapping applications. To enhance the output beam quality, laser stability, and compactness, a microchip configuration was used. In this arrangement the resonator mirrors were deposited directly on to the laser crystal faces. The Nd-doping concentration was 1 at.% Nd/Y. The Nd:YAG crystal was 5mm long. The laser resonator without pumping radiation recuperation was investigated {the output coupler was transparent for pumping radiation. For the generated laser radiation the output coupler reflectivity was 95%@1064 nm. The diameter of the samples was 5 mm. For the laser pumping two arrangements were investigated. Firstly, a fibre coupled laser diode operating at wavelength 808nm was used in CW mode. The 400 ¹m fiber was delivering up to 14W of pump power amplitude to the microchip laser. The maximum CW output power of 7.2W @ 1064nm in close to TEM00 beam was obtained for incident pumping power 13.7W @ 808 nm. The differential efficiency in respect to the incident pump power reached 56 %. Secondly, a single-emitter, 1W laser diode operating at 808nm was used for Nd:YAG microchip pumping. The laser pumping was directly coupled into the microchip laser using free-space lens optics. Slope efficiency up to 70% was obtained in stable, high-quality, 1064nm laser beam with CW power up to 350mW. The system was successfully used for scanning of super-Gaussian laser mirrors reflectivity profile.

Manipulating the wavelength-drift of a Tm laser for resonance enhancement in an intra-cavity pumped Ho laser.

PubMed

Huang, Haizhou; Huang, Jianhong; Liu, Huagang; Li, Jinhui; Lin, Zixiong; Ge, Yan; Dai, Shutao; Deng, Jing; Lin, Wenxiong

2018-03-05

We demonstrate an enhancement mechanism and thermal model for intra-cavity pumped lasers, where resonance enhancement in intra-cavity pumped Ho laser was achieved by manipulating the wavelength-drift nature of the Tm laser for the first time. Optical conversion efficiency of 37.5% from an absorbed 785 nm diode laser to a Ho laser was obtained with a maximum output power of 7.51 W at 2122 nm, which is comparable to the conversion efficiency in 1.9 μm LD pumped Ho lasers. Meanwhile, more severe thermal effects in the Ho-doped gain medium than the Tm-doped one at high power operation were verified based on the built thermal model. This work benefits the design or evaluation of intra-cavity pumped lasers, and the resonance enhancement originated from the difference in reabsorption loss between stark levels at the lasing manifolds of quasi-three-level rare-earth ions has great interest to improve the existing intra-cavity pumped lasers or explore novel lasers.

Pump polarization insensitive and efficient laser-diode pumped Yb:KYW ultrafast oscillator.

PubMed

Wang, Sha; Wang, Yan-Biao; Feng, Guo-Ying; Zhou, Shou-Huan

2016-02-01

We theoretically and experimentally report and evaluate a novel split laser-diode (LD) double-end pumped Yb:KYW ultrafast oscillator aimed at improving the performance of an ultrafast laser. Compared to a conventional unpolarized single-LD end-pumped ultrafast laser system, we improve the laser performance such as absorption efficiency, slope efficiency, cw mode-locking threshold, and output power by this new structure LD-pumped Yb:KYW ultrafast laser. Experiments were carried out with a 1 W output fiber-coupled LD. Experimental results show that the absorption increases from 38.7% to 48.4%, laser slope efficiency increases from 18.3% to 24.2%, cw mode-locking threshold decreases 12.7% from 630 to 550 mW in cw mode-locking threshold, and maximum output-power increases 28.5% from 158.4 to 221.5 mW when we switch the pump scheme from an unpolarized single-end pumping structure to a split LD double-end pumping structure.

Extraordinary variation of pump light intensity inside a four-level solid-state laser medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Hua; Fu, Rulian; Wang, Zhaoqi; Liu, Juan

2008-08-01

A theoretical investigation of the absorption of the pump light at different intensities through a four-level solid-state laser medium is presented. It is found that the variation of the pump intensity inside the laser medium cannot always simply be dominated by Beer's law. Transmission of the pump light through this laser medium is closely related to the pump intensity itself. In fact, when the pump intensity is relatively low, whose values depend on the characteristics of the medium, the variation of the pump light through the laser medium is consistent with Beer's law. However, while the pump intensity is high enough, the relationship between the transmission of the pump light and its propagation distance is demonstrated to be linear. These theoretical results have been confirmed by the experiment with a medium of YAG:Nd.

Transversely diode-pumped alkali metal vapour laser

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Parkhomenko, A I; Shalagin, A M

2015-09-30

We have studied theoretically the operation of a transversely diode-pumped alkali metal vapour laser. For the case of high-intensity laser radiation, we have obtained an analytical solution to a complex system of differential equations describing the laser. This solution allows one to exhaustively determine all the energy characteristics of the laser and to find optimal parameters of the working medium and pump radiation (temperature, buffer gas pressure, and intensity and width of the pump spectrum). (lasers)

Generation of Ince-Gaussian beams in highly efficient, nanosecond Cr, Nd:YAG microchip lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, J.; Ma, J.; Ren, Y. Y.; Xu, G. Z.; Kaminskii, A. A.

2013-08-01

Direct generation of higher-order Ince-Gaussian (IG) beams from laser-diode end-pumped Cr, Nd:YAG self-Q-switched microchip lasers was achieved with high efficiency and high repetition rate. An average output power of over 2 W was obtained at an absorbed pump power of 8.2 W a corresponding optical-to-optical efficiency of 25% was achieved. Various IG modes with nanosecond pulse width and peak power of over 2 kW were obtained in laser-diode pumped Cr, Nd:YAG microchip lasers under different pump power levels by applying a tilted, large area pump beam. The effect of the inversion population distribution induced by the tilted pump beam and nonlinear absorption of Cr4+-ions for different pump power levels on the oscillation of higher-order IG modes in Cr, Nd:YAG microchip lasers is addressed. The higher-order IG mode oscillation has a great influence on the laser performance of Cr, Nd:YAG microchip lasers.

Single laser based pump-probe technique to study plasma shielding during nanosecond laser ablation of copper thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nammi, Srinagalakshmi; Vasa, Nilesh J.; Gurusamy, Balaganesan; Mathur, Anil C.

2017-09-01

A plasma shielding phenomenon and its influence on micromachining is studied experimentally and theoretically for laser wavelengths of 355 nm, 532 nm and 1064 nm. A time resolved pump-probe technique is proposed and demonstrated by splitting a single nanosecond Nd3+:YAG laser into an ablation laser (pump laser) and a probe laser to understand the influence of plasma shielding on laser ablation of copper (Cu) clad on polyimide thin films. The proposed nanosecond pump-probe technique allows simultaneous measurement of the absorption characteristics of plasma produced during Cu film ablation by the pump laser. Experimental measurements of the probe intensity distinctly show that the absorption by the ablated plume increases with increase in the pump intensity, as a result of plasma shielding. Theoretical estimation of the intensity of the transmitted pump beam based on the thermo-temporal modeling is in qualitative agreement with the pump-probe based experimental measurements. The theoretical estimate of the depth attained for a single pulse with high pump intensity value on a Cu thin film is limited by the plasma shielding of the incident laser beam, similar to that observed experimentally. Further, the depth of micro-channels produced shows a similar trend for all three wavelengths, however, the channel depth achieved is lesser at the wavelength of 1064 nm.

Selective Emitter Pumped Rare Earth Laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chubb, Donald L. (Inventor); Patton, Martin O. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

A selective emitter pumped rare earth laser provides an additional type of laser for use in many laser applications. Rare earth doped lasers exist which are pumped with flashtubes or laser diodes. The invention uses a rare earth emitter to transform thermal energy input to a spectral band matching the absorption band of a rare earth in the laser in order to produce lasing.

GaAs laser diode pumped Nd:YAG laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Conant, L. C.; Reno, C. W.

1974-01-01

A 1.5-mm by 3-cm neodymium-ion doped YAG laser rod has been side pumped using a GaAs laser diode array tuned to the 8680-A absorption line, achieving a multimode average output power of 120 mW for a total input power of 20 W to the final-stage laser diode drivers. The pumped arrangement was designed to take advantage of the high brightness of a conventional GaAs array as a linear source by introducing the pump light through a slit into a close-wrapped gold coated pump cavity. This cavity forms an integrating chamber for the pump light.

Active mode-locked operation of a diode pumped colour-centre laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazighi, K.; Doualan, J. L.; Hamel, J.; Margerie, J.; Mounier, D.; Ostrovsky, A.

1991-09-01

The cw laser diode pumping of an (F +2) ∗ colour centre laser has been recently demonstrated in our laboratory. The intensity of the pumping diode can easily be hf modulated. We present here the first experiments in which the colour centre laser is synchronously pumped at the mode spacing frequency, resulting in the emission of clean, regularly spaced pulses. The opto-electronic feedback is a very promising method of obtaining such a pulsed operation of a diode pumped colour centre laser without the use of an external hf oscillator.

Face pumping of thin, solid-state slab lasers with laser diodes.

PubMed

Faulstich, A; Baker, H J; Hall, D R

1996-04-15

A new technique for face pumping of slab lasers uses transfer of light from 10 quasi-cw laser diode bars through a slotted mirror into a rectangular, highly ref lective pump chamber, giving efficient multipass pumping of a thin Nd:glass slab laser. A slope efficiency of 28% and a maximum pulse energy of 65 mJ have been obtained, and gain and loss measurements with thickness t = 0.45-1.04 mm have confirmed the 1/t scaling of gain in thin slabs and the high efficiency of pump light transfer.

Advanced solar energy conversion. [solar pumped gas lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. H.

1981-01-01

An atomic iodine laser, a candidate for the direct solar pumped lasers, was successfully excited with a 4 kW beam from a xenon arc solar simulator, thus proving the feasibility of the concept. The experimental set up and the laser output as functions of operating conditions are presented. The preliminary results of the iodine laser amplifier pumped with the HCP array to which a Q switch for giant pulse production was coupled are included. Two invention disclosures - a laser driven magnetohydrodynamic generator for conversion of laser energy to electricity and solar pumped gas lasers - are also included.

Design of a solar-pumped frequency-doubled 532 nm Nd:YVO4 laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kittiboonanan, P.; Putchana, W.; Deeudomand, M.; Ratanavis, A.

2017-09-01

During the last year we have made progresson a development of a frequency-doubled 532 nm Nd:YVO4 laser pumped by solar light. The research aimed to demonstrate solar pumped lasers consisting of the optically contracted Nd:YVO4 crystal and KTP crystal with a system of laser mirrors deposited onto crystal sides. The Cassegrain reflector is used as the configuration. This solar pumped laser system is appealing for a variety applications including laser communication, imaging and defense applications.

Efficient upconversion-pumped continuous wave Er3+:LiLuF4 lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moglia, Francesca; Müller, Sebastian; Reichert, Fabian; Metz, Philip W.; Calmano, Thomas; Kränkel, Christian; Heumann, Ernst; Huber, Günter

2015-04-01

We report on detailed spectroscopic investigations and efficient visible upconversion laser operation of Er3+:LiLuF4. This material allows for efficient resonant excited-state-absorption (ESA) pumping at 974 nm. Under spectroscopic conditions without external feedback, ESA at the laser wavelength of 552 nm prevails stimulated emission. Under lasing conditions in a resonant cavity, the high intracavity photon density bleaches the ESA at 552 nm, allowing for efficient cw laser operation. We obtained the highest output power of any room-temperature crystalline upconversion laser. The laser achieves a cw output power of 774 mW at a slope efficiency of 19% with respect to the incident pump power delivered by an optically-pumped semiconductor laser. The absorption efficiency of the pump radiation is estimated to be below 50%. To exploit the high confinement in waveguides for this laser, we employed femtosecond-laser pulses to inscribe a cladding of parallel tracks of modified material into Er3+:LiLuF4 crystals. The core material allows for low-loss waveguiding at pump and laser wavelengths. Under Ti:sapphire pumping at 974 nm, the first crystalline upconversion waveguide laser has been realized. We obtained waveguide-laser operation with up to 10 mW of output power at 553 nm.

Design investigation of solar-powered lasers for space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

The feasibility of using solar powered continuous wave (CW) lasers for space power transmission was investigated. Competing conceptual designs are considered. Optical pumping is summarized. Solar pumped Lasant type lasers are outlined. Indirect solar pumped lasers are considered.

LD side-pumped Nd:YAG Q-switched laser without water cooling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ling, Ming; Jin, Guang-yong; Tan, Xue-chun; Wu, Zhi-chao; Liang, Zhu

2009-07-01

A novel LD side-pumped Nd:YAG Q-switched solid-state laser, which made use of the special pumping strcture with conductive cooling instead of water cooling, was investigated.After selecting an appropriate length and diameter of Nd:YAG laser crystal rod and using three groups of laser diode centimeter bar which was composed by 12 laser diodes and uniformly arranged according to the angle of 120°,side-pumping structure of laser was accomplished.Adopting plano-concave resonator ,mending double end face of laser crystal and designing heat-stability resonator made the resonator steadily oscillate.Laser crystal rod which was tight fastened by copper net was conductively cooled and radiation block was furnished on the external of copper net for increasing the radiation capacity.High reflection gold film was plated on the cooling wall in the opposite way of pumping light, so that the laser crystal was uniformly pumped and the laser with low order mode output.Making the use of pillar lens focus and ray trace computing, reasonable parameters were caculated to couple pumping light to laser with high-efficiency.It was the electrooptic Q-switched which was made to be micro-integration eliminating voltage by KD*P crystal that improved the ratio between acting and unacting.Inner heat radiated from laser in good time with TE cooler and the laser ran at constant temperature with water cooling when the big external heat sink emanated a steady heat to periphery. Experiments revealed that the syetem pumping efficiency riseed by 18% and the laser threshold energy was 192 mJ under the condition of this novel pumping structure. The low mode output of 10-12ns pulse width and the maximum output energy of 98 mJ was achieved with an incident pump energy of 720 mJ in 1064nm.The optical-to-optical conversion efficiency was up to 13. 6 %,and the power instability in 24 h was better than +/-1. 7 %.

High efficiency laser-pumped emerald lasers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lai, S.T.

1987-09-25

Highly efficient laser operation has been achieved in emerald. In a quasi-cw laser-pumped emerald laser, 64% output slope efficiency has been measured at 768 nm, corresponding to a laser quantum yield of 76%. An output power of 1.6 W was reached at 3.6 W of pump power at 647.1 nm from a krypton laser, and was pump power limited. The emerald laser has a tuning range of 720 to 842 nm. The round trip loss excluding the excited state absorption (ESA) is 0.4%/cm. These results indicate the high laser efficiency and the high optical quality of the emerald attainable inmore » the present laser.« less

A solar-pumped Nd:YAG laser in the high collection efficiency regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lando, Mordechai; Kagan, Jacob; Linyekin, Boris; Dobrusin, Vadim

2003-07-01

Solar-pumped lasers can be used for space and terrestrial applications. We report on solar side-pumped Nd:YAG laser experiments, which included comprehensive beam quality measurements and demonstrated record collection efficiency and day long operation. A 6.75 m 2 segmented primary mirror was mounted on a commercial two-axis positioner and focused the solar radiation towards a stationary non-imaging-optics secondary concentrator, which illuminated a Nd:YAG laser rod. Solar side-pumped laser experiments were conducted in both the low and the high pumping density regimes. The low density system was composed of a 89 × 98-mm 2 aperture two-dimensional compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) and a 10-mm diameter 130-mm long Nd:YAG laser rod. The laser emitted up to 46 W and operated continuously for 5 h. The high density system was composed of a three-dimensional CPC with 98 mm entrance diameter and 24 mm exit diameter, followed by a two-dimensional CPC with a rectangular 24 × 33 mm 2 aperture. It pumped a 6-mm diameter 72 mm long Nd:YAG laser rod, which emitted up to 45 W. The results constitute a record collection efficiency of 6.7 W/m 2 of primary mirror. We compare the current results to previous solar side-pumped laser experiments, including experiments at higher pumping density but with low collection efficiency. Finally, we present a scaled up design for a 400 W laser pumped by a solar collection area of 60 m 2, incorporating simultaneously high collection efficiency and high pumping density.

Solar-pumped lasers for space power transmission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taussig, R.; Bruzzone, C.; Nelson, L.; Quimby, D.; Christiansen, W.

1979-01-01

Multi-Megawatt CW solar-pumped lasers appear to be technologically feasible for space power transmission in the 1990s time frame. A new concept for a solar-pumped laser is presented which utilizes an intermediate black body cavity to provide a uniform optical pumping environment for the lasant, either CO or CO2. Reradiation losses are minimized with resulting high efficiency operation. A 1 MW output laser may weigh as little as 8000 kg including solar collector, black body cavity, laser cavity and ducts, pumps, power systems and waste heat radiator. The efficiency of such a system will be on the order of 10 to 20%. Details of the new concept, laser design, comparison to competing solar-powered lasers and applications to a laser solar power satellite (SPS) concept are presented.

Narrowband diode laser pump module for pumping alkali vapors.

PubMed

Rotondaro, M D; Zhdanov, B V; Shaffer, M K; Knize, R J

2018-04-16

We describe a method of line narrowing and frequency-locking a diode laser stack to an alkali atomic line for use as a pump module for Diode Pumped Alkali Lasers. The pump module consists of a 600 W antireflection coated diode laser stack configured to lase using an external cavity. The line narrowing and frequency locking is accomplished by introducing a narrowband polarization filter based on magneto-optical Faraday effect into the external cavity, which selectively transmits only the frequencies that are in resonance with the 6 2 S 1/2 → 6 2 P 3/2 transition of Cs atoms. The resulting pump module has demonstrated that a diode laser stack, which lases with a line width of 3 THz without narrowbanding, can be narrowed to 10 GHz. The line narrowed pump module produced 518 Watts that is 80% of the power generated by the original broadband diode laser stack.

Fibre-coupled red diode-pumped Alexandrite TEM00 laser with single and double-pass end-pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arbabzadah, E. A.; Damzen, M. J.

2016-06-01

We report the investigation of an Alexandrite laser end-pumped by a fibre-coupled red diode laser module. Power, efficiency, spatial, spectral, and wavelength tuning performance are studied as a function of pump and laser cavity parameters. It is the first demonstration, to our knowledge, of greater than 1 W power and also highest laser slope efficiency (44.2%) in a diode-pumped Alexandrite laser with diffraction-limited TEM00 mode operation. Spatial quality was excellent with beam propagation parameter M 2 ~ 1.05. Wavelength tuning from 737-796 nm was demonstrated using an intracavity birefringent tuning filter. Using a novel double pass end-pumping scheme to get efficient absorption of both polarisation states of the scrambled fibre-delivered diode pump, a total output coupled power of 1.66 W is produced in TEM00 mode with 40% slope efficiency.

Red and orange laser operation of Pr:KYF4 pumped by a Nd:YAG/LBO laser at 469.1 nm and a InGaN laser diode at 444 nm.

PubMed

Xu, B; Starecki, F; Pabœuf, D; Camy, P; Doualan, J L; Cai, Z P; Braud, A; Moncorgé, R; Goldner, Ph; Bretenaker, F

2013-03-11

We report the basic luminescence properties and the continuous-wave (CW) laser operation of a Pr(3+)-doped KYF(4) single crystal in the Red and Orange spectral regions by using a new pumping scheme. The pump source is an especially developed, compact, slightly tunable and intra-cavity frequency-doubled diode-pumped Nd:YAG laser delivering a CW output power up to about 1.4 W around 469.1 nm. At this pump wavelength, red and orange laser emissions are obtained at about 642.3 and 605.5 nm, with maximum output powers of 11.3 and 1 mW and associated slope efficiencies of 9.3% and 3.4%, with respect to absorbed pump powers, respectively. For comparison, the Pr:KYF(4) crystal is also pumped by a InGaN blue laser diode operating around 444 nm. In this case, the same red and orange lasers are obtained, but with maximum output powers of 7.8 and 2 mW and the associated slope efficiencies of 7 and 5.8%, respectively. Wavelength tuning for the two lasers is demonstrated by slightly tilting the crystal. Orange laser operation and laser wavelength tuning are reported for the first time.

Power and polarization dependences of ultra-narrow electromagnetically induced absorption (EIA) spectra of 85 Rb atoms in degenerate two-level system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qureshi, Muhammad Mohsin; Rehman, Hafeez Ur; Noh, Heung-Ryoul; Kim, Jin-Tae

2016-05-01

We have investigated ultra-narrow EIA spectral features with respect to variations of polarizations and powers of pump laser beam in a degenerate two-level system of the transition of 85 Rb D2 transition line. Polarizations of the probe laser beam in two separate experiments were fixed at right circular and horizontal linear polarizations, respectively while the polarizations of the pump lasers were varied from initial polarizations same as the probe laser beams to orthogonal to probe polarizations. One homemade laser combined with AOMs was used to the pump and probe laser beams instead of two different lasers to overcome broad linewidths of the homemade lasers. Theoretically, probe absorption coefficients have been calculated from optical Bloch equations of the degenerate two level system prepared by a pump laser beam. In the case of the circular polarization, EIA signal was obtained as expected theoretically although both pump and probe beams have same polarization. The EIA signal become smaller as power increases and polarizations of the pump and probe beams were same. When the polarization of the pump beam was linear polarization, maximum EIA signal was obtained theoretically and experimentally. Experimental EIA spectral shapes with respect to variations of the pump beam polarization shows similar trends as the theoretical results.

Highly scalable, resonantly cladding-pumped, Er-doped fiber laser with record efficiency.

PubMed

Dubinskii, M; Zhang, J; Ter-Mikirtychev, V

2009-05-15

We report the performance of a resonantly cladding-pumped, Yb-free, Er-doped fiber laser. We believe this is the first reported resonantly cladding-pumped fiber-Bragg-grating-based, Er-doped, large-mode-area (LMA) fiber laser. The laser, pumped by fiber-coupled InGaAsP/InP laser diode modules at 1,532.5 nm, delivers approximately 48 W of cw output at 1,590 nm. It is believed to be the highest power ever reported from a Yb-free Er-doped LMA fiber. This fully integrated laser also has the optical-to-optical efficiency of approximately 57%, to the best of our knowledge, the highest efficiency reported for cladding-pumped unidirectionally emitting Er-doped laser.

Multiwavelength L-band fiber laser with bismuth-oxide EDF and photonic crystal fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramzia Salem, A. M.; Al-Mansoori, M. H.; Hizam, H.; Mohd Noor, S. B.; Abu Bakar, M. H.; Mahdi, M. A.

2011-05-01

A multiwavelength laser comb using a bismuth-based erbium-doped fiber and 50 m photonic crystal fiber is demonstrated in a ring cavity configuration. The fiber laser is solely pumped by a single 1455 nm Raman pump laser to exploit its higher power delivery compared to that of a single-mode laser diode pump. At 264 mW Raman pump power and 1 mW Brillouin pump power, 38 output channels in the L-band have been realized with an optical signal-to-noise ratio above 15 dB and a Stokes line spacing of 0.08 nm. The laser exhibits a tuning range of 12 nm and produces stable Stokes lines across the tuning range between Brillouin pump wavelengths of 1603 nm and 1615 nm.

First demonstration of green and amber LED-pumped Nd:YAG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarkashvand, M.; Farahbod, A. H.; Hashemizadeh, S. A.

2018-05-01

For the first time, to the best of our knowledge, a green (520 nm) and amber (592 nm) light emitting diode-pumped Nd:YAG laser is reported. The laser oscillator is a stable semi-planar resonator with a total length of 140 mm. The green (amber) light emitting diode-pumped laser produced a 107 (52) µJ laser energy, at 2.6 (0.7) J electrical pump energy. The oscillator operated at a low repetition rate (about 0.1 Hz) in free-running mode, where the laser spikes were initiated about 210–280 µs after the leading edge of the pump pulse. Moreover, the transverse mode profiles of the resonator, pump absorption efficiency, and optical gain have been studied in some detail.

Resonantly diode-pumped continuous-wave and Q-switched Er:YAG laser at 1645 nm.

PubMed

Chang, N W H; Simakov, N; Hosken, D J; Munch, J; Ottaway, D J; Veitch, P J

2010-06-21

We describe an efficient Er:YAG laser that is resonantly pumped using continuous-wave (CW) laser diodes at 1470 nm. For CW lasing, it emits 6.1 W at 1645 nm with a slope efficiency of 36%, the highest efficiency reported for an Er:YAG laser that is pumped in this manner. In Q-switched operation, the laser produces diffraction-limited pulses with an average power of 2.5 W at 2 kHz PRF. To our knowledge this is the first Q-switched Er:YAG laser resonantly pumped by CW laser diodes.

Fissioning uranium plasmas and nuclear-pumped lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, R. T.; Thom, K.

1975-01-01

Current research into uranium plasmas, gaseous-core (cavity) reactors, and nuclear-pumped lasers is discussed. Basic properties of fissioning uranium plasmas are summarized together with potential space and terrestrial applications of gaseous-core reactors and nuclear-pumped lasers. Conditions for criticality of a uranium plasma are outlined, and it is shown that the nonequilibrium state and the optical thinness of a fissioning plasma can be exploited for the direct conversion of fission fragment energy into coherent light (i.e., for nuclear-pumped lasers). Successful demonstrations of nuclear-pumped lasers are described together with gaseous-fuel reactor experiments using uranium hexafluoride.

Solar powered blackbody-pumped lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christiansen, Walter H.; Sirota, J. M.

1991-02-01

A concept for a solar-powered laser is presented which utilizes an intermediate blackbody cavity to provide a uniform optical pumping environment for the lasant, typically CO or CO2 or possibly a solid state laser medium. High power cw blackbody- pumped lasers with efficiencies on the order of 20 percent or more are feasible. The physical basis of this idea is reviewed. Small scale experiments using a high temperature oven as the optical pump have been carried out with gas laser mixtures. Detailed calculations showing a potential efficiency of 35 percent for blackbody pumped Nd:YAG system are discussed.

Laser dye DCM: CW, synchronously pumped, cavity pumped and single-frequency performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marason, E. G.

1981-04-01

Laser dye DCM exhibits a tuning range of 605 to 725 nm with a lasing efficiency as high as 34% when pumped by the 488 nm line of the argon ion laser, placing it among the most efficient and broadly tunable dyes known. Performance of the dye is characterized for four laser systems: 1) continuous wave, 2) synchronously pumped (SP), 3) cavity dumped synchrompously pumped (SPCD) and 4) single-frequency ring dye laser. Pulse peak powers were as high as 520 W and 2.8 kW for SP and SPCD systems respectively.

Low threshold and high efficiency solar-pumped laser with Fresnel lens and a grooved Nd:YAG rod

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guan, Zhe; Zhao, Changming; Yang, Suhui; Wang, Yu; Ke, Jieyao; Gao, Fengbin; Zhang, Haiyang

2016-11-01

Sunlight is considered as a new efficient source for direct optical-pumped solid state lasers. High-efficiency solar pumped lasers with low threshold power would be more promising than semiconductor lasers with large solar panel in space laser communication. Here we report a significant advance in solar-pumped laser threshold by pumping Nd:YAG rod with a grooved sidewall. Two-solar pumped laser setups are devised. In both cases, a Fresnel lens is used as the primary sunlight concentrator. Gold-plated conical cavity with a liquid light-guide lens is used as the secondary concentrator to further increase the solar energy concentration. In the first setup, solar pumping a 6mm diameter Nd:YAG rod, maximum laser power of 31.0W/m2 cw at 1064nm is produced, which is higher than the reported record, and the slope efficiency is 4.98% with the threshold power on the surface of Fresnel lens is 200 W. In the second setup, a 5 mm diameter laser rod output power is 29.8W/m2 with a slope efficiency of 4.3%. The threshold power of 102W is obtained, which is 49% lower than the former. Meanwhile, the theoretical calculating of the threshold power and slope efficiency of the solar-pumped laser has been established based on the rate-equation of a four-level system. The results of the finite element analysis by simulation software are verified in experiment. The optimization of the conical cavity by TraceProsoftware and the optimization of the laser resonator by LASCADare useful for the design of a miniaturization solar- pumped laser.

Fiber laser at 2 μm for soft tissue surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Aditi; Pal, Debasis; Sen, Ranjan; Pal, Atasi

2014-11-01

Strong water absorption at 2 μm generated recent interest in lasers at this wavelength for soft tissue surgery. A fiber Bragg grating-based, all-fiber, continuous-wave, cladding pumped, thulium-doped fiber laser at 1.95 μm is configured. The thulium-doped active fiber with octagonal-shaped inner cladding is pumped at 808 nm (total power of 17 W) with six laser diodes through a combiner. The laser power of 3.3 W (after elimination of unabsorbed pump power through a passive fiber) with slope efficiency of 23% (against launched pump power) is achieved. The linear variation of laser power with pump offers scope of further power scaling.

High-efficiency, 154  W CW, diode-pumped Raman fiber laser with brightness enhancement.

PubMed

Glick, Yaakov; Fromzel, Viktor; Zhang, Jun; Ter-Gabrielyan, Nikolay; Dubinskii, Mark

2017-01-20

We demonstrate a high-power, high-efficiency Raman fiber laser pumped directly by laser diode modules at 978 nm. 154 W of CW power were obtained at a wavelength of 1023 nm with an optical to optical efficiency of 65%. A commercial graded-index (GRIN) core fiber acts as the Raman fiber in a power oscillator configuration, which includes spectral selection to prevent generation of the second Stokes. In addition, brightness enhancement of the pump beam by a factor of 8.4 is attained due to the Raman gain distribution profile in the GRIN fiber. To the best of our knowledge this is the highest power and highest efficiency Raman fiber laser demonstrated in any configuration allowing brightness enhancement (i.e., in either cladding-pumped configuration or with GRIN fibers, excluding step-index core pumped), regardless of pumping scheme (i.e., either diode pumped or fiber laser pumped).

Optimization of end-pumped, actively Q-switched quasi-III-level lasers.

PubMed

Jabczynski, Jan K; Gorajek, Lukasz; Kwiatkowski, Jacek; Kaskow, Mateusz; Zendzian, Waldemar

2011-08-15

The new model of end-pumped quasi-III-level laser considering transient pumping processes, ground-state-depletion and up-conversion effects was developed. The model consists of two parts: pumping stage and Q-switched part, which can be separated in a case of active Q-switching regime. For pumping stage the semi-analytical model was developed, enabling the calculations for final occupation of upper laser level for given pump power and duration, spatial profile of pump beam, length and dopant level of gain medium. For quasi-stationary inversion, the optimization procedure of Q-switching regime based on Lagrange multiplier technique was developed. The new approach for optimization of CW regime of quasi-three-level lasers was developed to optimize the Q-switched lasers operating with high repetition rates. Both methods of optimizations enable calculation of optimal absorbance of gain medium and output losses for given pump rate. © 2011 Optical Society of America

Diode-pumped continuous-wave eye-safe Nd:YAG laser at 1415 nm.

PubMed

Lee, Hee Chul; Byeon, Sung Ug; Lukashev, Alexei

2012-04-01

We describe the output performance of the 1415 nm emission in Nd:YAG in a plane-concave cavity under traditional pumping into the 4F5/2 level (808 nm) and direct in-band pumping into the 4F3/2 level (885 nm). An end-pumped Nd:YAG laser yielded maximum cw output power of 6.3 W and 4.2 W at 885 nm and 808 nm laser diode (LD) pumping, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest output power of a LD-pumped 1415 nm laser.

Amplified spontaneous emission in solar-pumped iodine laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cho, Yong S.; Hwang, In H.; Han, Kwang S.; Lee, Ja H.

1992-01-01

The amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) from a long pulse, solar-simulating radiation pumped iodine laser amplifier is studied. The ASE threshold pump intensity is almost proportional to the inverse of the laser gain length when the gas pressure is constant in the laser tube.

Studies on output characteristics of stable dual-wavelength ytterbium-doped photonic crystal fiber laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Hongchun; Zhang, Sa; Hou, Zhiyun; Xia, Changming; Zhou, Guiyao; Zhang, Wei; Liu, Jiantao; Wu, Jiale; Fu, Jian

2016-06-01

A stable dual-wavelength ytterbium-doped photonic crystal fiber laser pumped by a 976 nm laser diode has been demonstrated at room temperature. Single-wavelength, dual-wavelength laser oscillations are observed when the fiber laser operates under different pump power by using different length of fibers. Stable dual-wavelength radiation around 1045 nm and 1075 nm has been generated simultaneously at a high pump power directly from an ytterbium-doped fiber laser without using any spectral control mechanism. A small core ytterbium-doped PCF fabricated by the powder sinter direction drawn rod technology is used as gain medium. The pump power and fiber length which can affect the output characteristics of dual-wavelength fiber laser are analyzed in the experiment. Experiments confirm that higher pump power and longer fiber length favors 1075 nm output; lower pump power and shorter fiber length favors 1045 nm output. Those results have a good reference in multi-wavelength fiber laser.

Laser diode side-pumped Nd:YVO4 microchip laser with film-etched microcavity mirrors.

PubMed

Li, Jiyang; Niu, Yanxiong; Chen, Sanbin; Tan, Yidong

2017-10-01

Microchip lasers are applied as the light sources on various occasions with the end-pumping scheme. However, the vibration, the temperature drift, or the mechanical deformation of the pumping light in laser diodes in the end-pumping scheme will lead to instability in the microchip laser output, which causes errors and malfunctioning in the optic systems. In this paper, the side-pumping scheme is applied for improving the disturbance-resisting ability of the microchip laser. The transverse mode and the frequency purity of the laser output are tested. To ensure unicity in the frequency of the laser output, numerical simulations based on Fresnel-Kirchhoff diffraction theory are conducted on the parameters of the microchip laser cavity. Film-etching technique is applied to restrain the area of the film and form the microcavity mirrors. The laser output with microcavity mirrors is ensured to be in single frequency and with good beam quality, which is significant in the applications of microchip lasers as the light sources in optical systems.

A blackbody radiation-pumped CO2 laser experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Christiansen, W. H.; Insuik, R. J.; Deyoung, R. J.

1982-01-01

Thermal radiation from a high temperature oven was used as an optical pump to achieve lasing from CO2 mixtures. Laser output as a function of blackbody temperature and gas conditions is described. This achievement represents the first blackbody cavity pumped laser and has potential for solar pumping.

Theoretical model and simulations for a cw exciplex pumped alkali laser.

PubMed

Huang, Wei; Tan, Rongqing; Li, Zhiyong; Lu, Xiaochuan

2015-12-14

The Exciplex Pumped Alkali Laser (XPAL) system, which is similar to DPAL (Diode Pumped Alkali vapor Laser), has been demonstrated in mixtures of Cs vapor, Ar, with and without ethane. Unlike DPAL, it uses the broadband absorption blue satellite of the alkali D₂ line, created by naturally occuring collision pairs. For example, Cs-Ar collision pairs have an absorption width which is as wide as the one of commercial semiconductor diode lasers. A continuous wave XPAL four-level theoretical model is presented in this paper. More factors are considered, such as the spectral dependence of pumped laser absorption for broadband pumping and the longitudinal population variation. Some intra-cavity details, such as longitudinal distributions of pumped laser and alkali laser, can also be solved well. The predictions of optical-to-optical efficiency as a function of temperature and pumped laser intensity are presented. The model predicts that there is an optimum value of temperature or pumped laser intensity. The analysis of the influence of cell length on optical-to-optical efficiency shows that a better performance can be achieved when using longer cell. The prediction of influence of Ar concentration and reflectivity of output coupler shows that higher optical-to-optical efficiency could be achieved if lower reflectivity of output coupler and higher Ar concentration are used. The optical-to-optical efficiency as high as 84% achieved by optimizing configuration with the pumped intensity of 5 × 10⁷ W/cm² presented shows that broadband pumped four-level XPAL system has a potential of high optical-to-optical efficiency.

Direct diode-pumped Kerr Lens 13 fs Ti:sapphire ultrafast oscillator using a single blue laser diode

DOE PAGES

Backus, Sterling; Colorado State Univ., Fort Collins, CO; Kirchner, Matt; ...

2017-05-18

We demonstrate a direct diode-pumped Kerr Lens Modelocked Ti:sapphire laser producing 13 fs pulses with 1.85 nJ energy at 78 MHz (145 mW) using a single laser diode pump. We also present a similar laser using three spectrally combined diodes, generating >300 mW output power with >50 nm bandwidth. We discuss the use of far-from TEM 00 pump laser sources, and their effect on the Kerr lens modelocking process.

Direct diode-pumped Kerr Lens 13 fs Ti:sapphire ultrafast oscillator using a single blue laser diode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Backus, Sterling; Colorado State Univ., Fort Collins, CO; Kirchner, Matt

We demonstrate a direct diode-pumped Kerr Lens Modelocked Ti:sapphire laser producing 13 fs pulses with 1.85 nJ energy at 78 MHz (145 mW) using a single laser diode pump. We also present a similar laser using three spectrally combined diodes, generating >300 mW output power with >50 nm bandwidth. We discuss the use of far-from TEM 00 pump laser sources, and their effect on the Kerr lens modelocking process.

Fundamental Study of Nuclear Pumped Laser Plasmas.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-12-23

PUMPED DYE LASER PMT PUMPING/ GAS HAND- LING SYSTEM ANODE SIGNAL TO SCREEN ROOM FIGURE 13 EXPERIMENTAL APPARATUS FROM ANODE OF PMT SCREEN ROOM...and G.A. Zdasiuk, " Laser Induced Collisional and Radiative Energy Transfer’, Proceedings of Laser Spectroscopy IV, June 1979. W. R. Green, M.D. Wright...AD-A130 988 FUNDAMENTAL STUDY 0F NUCLEAR PUMPED LASER PLASMAS(U) 1/ MIAMI UNIV OXFORD UHDi EPT OF PHYSIS Cs W DOWNES ET AL 23 DEC AS OASGAS 7A C OSAN

End-pumped Nd:YVO4 laser with reduced thermal lensing via the use of a ring-shaped pump beam.

PubMed

Lin, Di; Andrew Clarkson, W

2017-08-01

A simple approach for alleviating thermal lensing in end-pumped solid-state lasers using a pump beam with a ring-shaped intensity distribution to decrease the radial temperature gradient is described. This scheme has been implemented in a diode-end-pumped Nd:YVO 4 laser yielding 14 W of TEM 00 output at 1.064 μm with a corresponding slope efficiency of 53% and a beam propagation factor (M 2 ) of 1.08 limited by available pump power. By comparison, the same laser design with a conventional quasi-top-hat pump beam profile of approximately equal radial extent yielded only 9 W of output before the power rolled over due to thermal lensing. Further investigation with the aid of a probe beam revealed that the thermal lens power was ∼30% smaller for the ring-shaped pump beam compared to the quasi-top-hat beam. The implications for further power scaling in end-pumped laser configurations are considered.

Modeling of static and flowing-gas diode pumped alkali lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barmashenko, Boris D.; Auslender, Ilya; Yacoby, Eyal; Waichman, Karol; Sadot, Oren; Rosenwaks, Salman

2016-03-01

Modeling of static and flowing-gas subsonic, transonic and supersonic Cs and K Ti:Sapphire and diode pumped alkali lasers (DPALs) is reported. A simple optical model applied to the static K and Cs lasers shows good agreement between the calculated and measured dependence of the laser power on the incident pump power. The model reproduces the observed threshold pump power in K DPAL which is much higher than that predicted by standard models of the DPAL. Scaling up flowing-gas DPALs to megawatt class power is studied using accurate three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics model, taking into account the effects of temperature rise and losses of alkali atoms due to ionization. Both the maximum achievable power and laser beam quality are estimated for Cs and K lasers. The performance of subsonic and, in particular, supersonic DPALs is compared with that of transonic, where supersonic nozzle and diffuser are spared and high power mechanical pump (needed for recovery of the gas total pressure which strongly drops in the diffuser), is not required for continuous closed cycle operation. For pumping by beams of the same rectangular cross section, comparison between end-pumping and transverse-pumping shows that the output power is not affected by the pump geometry, however, the intensity of the output laser beam in the case of transverse-pumped DPALs is strongly non-uniform in the laser beam cross section resulting in higher brightness and better beam quality in the far field for the end-pumping geometry where the intensity of the output beam is uniform.

Investigation of possibilities for solar-powered high-energy lasers in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

Solar pumped lasers were investigated. The literature was reviewed for possible solar laser candidates from optical pumping experiments. A baseline CO electric discharge laser system was shown to be technically feasible. The most promising direct solar pumped laser was identified to be CF3I. Using the 'STAG' solar laser concept and CF3I, it was found that such a system could be weight competitive with the baseline CO laser system.

Optimized Biasing of Pump Laser Diodes in a Highly Reliable Metrology Source for Long-Duration Space Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poberezhskiy, Ilya Y; Chang, Daniel H.; Erlig, Herman

2011-01-01

Optical metrology system reliability during a prolonged space mission is often limited by the reliability of pump laser diodes. We developed a metrology laser pump module architecture that meets NASA SIM Lite instrument optical power and reliability requirements by combining the outputs of multiple single-mode pump diodes in a low-loss, high port count fiber coupler. We describe Monte-Carlo simulations used to calculate the reliability of the laser pump module and introduce a combined laser farm aging parameter that serves as a load-sharing optimization metric. Employing these tools, we select pump module architecture, operating conditions, biasing approach and perform parameter sensitivity studies to investigate the robustness of the obtained solution.

In-band-pumped Ho:KLu(WO4)2 microchip laser with 84% slope efficiency.

PubMed

Loiko, Pavel; Serres, Josep Maria; Mateos, Xavier; Yumashev, Konstantin; Kuleshov, Nikolai; Petrov, Valentin; Griebner, Uwe; Aguiló, Magdalena; Díaz, Francesc

2015-02-01

We report on a continuous-wave Ho:KLu(WO4)2 (KLuW) microchip laser with a record slope efficiency of 84%, the highest value among the holmium inband-pumped lasers, delivering 201 mW output power at 2105 nm. The Ho laser operating at room temperature on the (5)I8→(5)I7 transition is in-band-pumped by a diode-pumped Tm:KLuW microchip laser at 1946 nm. Ho:KLuW laser operation at 2061 and 2079 nm is also demonstrated with a maximum slope efficiency of 79%. The microchip laser generates an almost diffraction-limited output beam with a Gaussian profile and a M2<1.1. The laser performance of the Ng-cut Ho:KLuW crystal is very similar for pump light polarizations ‖Nm and Np. The positive thermal lens plays a key role in the laser mode stabilization and proper mode-matching. The latter, together with the low quantum defect under in-band-pumping (∼0.08), is responsible for the extraordinary high slope efficiency.

Diode-Laser Pumped Far-Infrared Local Oscillator Based on Semiconductor Quantum Wells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kolokolov, K.; Li, J.; Ning, C. Z.; Larrabee, D. C.; Tang, J.; Khodaparast, G.; Kono, J.; Sasa, S.; Inoue, M.; Biegel, Bryan A. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The contents include: 1) Tetrahertz Field: A Technology Gap; 2) Existing THZ Sources and Shortcomings; 3) Applications of A THZ Laser; 4) Previous Optical Pumped LW Generations; 5) Optically Pumped Sb based Intersubband Generation Whys; 6) InGaAs/InP/AlAsSb QWs; 7) Raman Enhanced Optical Gain; 8) Pump Intensity Dependence of THZ Gain; 9) Pump-Probe Interaction Induced Raman Shift; 10) THZ Laser Gain in InGaAs/InP/AlAsSb QWs; 11) Diode-Laser Pumped Difference Frequency Generation (InGaAs/InP/AlAsSb QWs); 12) 6.1 Angstrom Semiconductor Quantum Wells; 13) InAs/GaSb/AlSb Nanostructures; 14) InAs/AlSb Double QWs: DFG Scheme; 15) Sb-Based Triple QWs: Laser Scheme; and 16) Exciton State Pumped THZ Generation. This paper is presented in viewgraph form.

Efficient diode-pumped Tm:KYW 1.9-μm microchip laser with 1 W cw output power.

PubMed

Gaponenko, Maxim; Kuleshov, Nikolay; Südmeyer, Thomas

2014-05-19

We report on a diode-pumped Tm:KYW microchip laser generating 1 W continuous-wave output power. The laser operates at a wavelength of 1.94 μm in the fundamental TEM(00) mode with 71% slope efficiency relative to the absorbed pump radiation and 59% slope efficiency relative to the incident pump radiation. The optical-to-optical laser efficiency is 43%.

Method and apparatus for an increased output for a pumped laser using a moving aperture

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LaPlante, M.J.; Bender, H.A. III; Carbaugh, W.D. Jr.

1993-08-03

An enhanced pumped laser system is described comprising: (a) at least one laser medium for forming a laser beam, said laser beam having a laser beam axis, (b) at least one means for pumping at least a portion of said at least one laser medium, wherein said pumping causes a population inversion in at least a portion of said at least one laser medium, (c) at least one means for defining an allowable laser beam path, wherein said allowable laser beam path is smaller than the cross-section of said at least one laser medium, (d) at least one means formore » sweeping said allowable laser beam path through said population inverted region of said at least one laser medium, (e) at least one first mirror to reflect at least a portion of said laser beam,« less

Hybrid chirped pulse amplification system

DOEpatents

Barty, Christopher P.; Jovanovic, Igor

2005-03-29

A hybrid chirped pulse amplification system wherein a short-pulse oscillator generates an oscillator pulse. The oscillator pulse is stretched to produce a stretched oscillator seed pulse. A pump laser generates a pump laser pulse. The stretched oscillator seed pulse and the pump laser pulse are directed into an optical parametric amplifier producing an optical parametric amplifier output amplified signal pulse and an optical parametric amplifier output unconverted pump pulse. The optical parametric amplifier output amplified signal pulse and the optical parametric amplifier output laser pulse are directed into a laser amplifier producing a laser amplifier output pulse. The laser amplifier output pulse is compressed to produce a recompressed hybrid chirped pulse amplification pulse.

Polarization characteristic of a room-temperature Co:MgF2 laser.

PubMed

Zhang, Zengming M; Cui, Yiben B; Li, Fuli L; Zhang, Guobin B; Pu, Qirong R; Xu, Gaojie J

2002-02-20

A study of the polarization characteristic of a Co:MgF2 laser with a 1320-nm YAG pumping laser at room temperature is reported. The thresholds, output energies, and efficiencies of the laser are given at the various polarization states. The more intensive emission is in the pi-polarization pump laser and sigma-polarization laser operation. Performances of the Co:MgF2 lasers are similar for the polarized and unpolarized laser pumping along the optical axis of the crystal.

A low timing jitter picosecond microchip laser pumped by pulsed LD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Sha; Wang, Yan-biao; Feng, Guoying; Zhou, Shou-huan

2016-07-01

SESAM passively Q-switched microchip laser is a very promising instrument to replace mode locked lasers to obtain picosecond pulses. The biggest drawback of a passively Q-switched microchip laser is its un-avoided large timing jitter, especially when the pump intensity is low, i.e. at low laser repetition rate range. In order to obtain a low timing jitter passively Q-switched picosecond microchip laser in the whole laser repetition rate range, a 1000 kHz pulsed narrow bandwidth Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) stablized laser diode was used as the pump source. By tuning the pump intensity, we could control the output laser frequency. In this way, we achieved a very low timing jitter passively Q-switched picosecond laser at 2.13 mW, 111.1 kHz. The relative timing jitter was only 0.0315%, which was around 100 times smaller compared with a cw LD pumped microchip working at hundred kilohertz repetition rate frequency range.

Direct solar-pumped lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. H.; Shiu, Y. J.; Weaver, W. R.

1980-01-01

The feasibility of direct solar pumping of an iodine photodissociation laser at lambda = 1.315 microns was investigated. Threshold inversion density and effect of elevated temperature (up to 670 K) on the laser output were measured. These results and the concentration of solar radiation required for the solar pumped iodine laser are discussed.

End-pumped 300 W continuous-wave ytterbium-doped all-fiber laser with master oscillator multi-stage power amplifiers configuration.

PubMed

Yin, Shupeng; Yan, Ping; Gong, Mali

2008-10-27

An end-pumped ytterbium-doped all-fiber laser with 300 W output in continuous regime was reported, which was based on master oscillator multi-stage power amplifiers configuration. Monolithic fiber laser system consisted of an oscillator stage and two amplifier stages. Total optical-optical efficiency of monolithic fiber laser was approximately 65%, corresponding to 462 W of pump power coupled into laser system. We proposed a new method to connect power amplifier stage, which was crucial for the application of end-pumped combiner in high power MOPAs all-fiber laser.

Research on radiation induced laser plasmas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, R. T.; Rowe, M. J.; Carter, B. D.; Walters, R. A.; Cox, J. D.; Liang, R.; Roxey, T.; Zapata, L.

1979-01-01

The development of high power nuclear pumped lasers is discussed. The excitation mechanism of continuous wave (CW) HeNe nuclear pumped lasers is studied and a CO2 nuclear pumped laser is used to demonstrate the CW output in the order of watts. The assumption that high power densities are only achievable by volume fission fragment sources is used to identify laser gases which are compatible with UF6 by excited states lifetime measurements. The examination of Xe2, XeF, and KrF under nuclear irradiation to determine if they are good candidates for nuclear-pumped lasers is described.

Theoretical study on the thermal and optical features of a diode side-pumped alkali laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Juhong; Liu, Xiaoxu; Wang, Hongyuan; Cai, He; An, Guofei; Zhang, Wei; Wang, You

2018-03-01

As one of the most hopeful candidates to achieve high power performances, a diode-pumped alkali laser (DPAL) has attracted a lot of attention in the last decade. Comparing with a diode end-pumped alkali laser (DEPAL), a diode side-pumped alkali laser (DSPAL) has great potentiality to realize an even-higher output of alkali lasers. However, there are few related researching studies concern DSPAL. In this paper, we introduce a theoretical model to investigate the physical features of a double-directions side-pumped alkali laser. The distributions of the population density, temperature, and absorption power at the cross section of a vapor cell are systematically studied. The analyses should be valuable for design of a steady high-powered DPAL.

Investigations of a Dual Seeded 1178 nm Raman Laser System

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-14

20 W. Because of the linewidth broadening, a co- pumped second Stokes Raman laser system is not useful for the sodium guidestar laser application... pumped second Stokes Raman laser system is not useful for the sodium guidestar laser application which requires narrow linewidth. Keywords: Raman...optical efficiency of 52% when pumped with a linearly polarized 1120 nm fiber laser10,11. Because of the all-polarization maintaining configuration, a

CW laser pumped emerald laser

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shand, M.L.; Lai, S.T.

1984-02-01

A CW laser-pumped emerald laser is reported. A 34 percent output power slope efficiency is observed with longitudinal pumping by a krypton laser in a nearly concentric cavity. The laser has been tuned from 728.8 to 809.0 nm. Losses in emerald are larger than those of alexandrite determined in a similar cavity. The present data also indicate that the excited state absorption minimum is shifted from that of alexandrite. 13 references.

Single-frequency Ince-Gaussian mode operations of laser-diode-pumped microchip solid-state lasers.

PubMed

Ohtomo, Takayuki; Kamikariya, Koji; Otsuka, Kenju; Chu, Shu-Chun

2007-08-20

Various single-frequency Ince-Gaussian mode oscillations have been achieved in laser-diode-pumped microchip solid-state lasers, including LiNdP(4)O(12) (LNP) and Nd:GdVO(4), by adjusting the azimuthal symmetry of the short laser resonator. Ince-Gaussian modes formed by astigmatic pumping have been reproduced by numerical simulation.

Efficient blue emission of ytterbium-doped Sr5(PO4)3F under quasi-three-level intracavity pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Y.; Cao, G. H.

2012-02-01

We report an Yb:Sr5(PO4)3F (Yb:S-FAP) laser emitting at 985 nm intracavity pumped by a 912 nm diode-pumped Nd:GdVO4 laser. A 808 nm diode laser is used to pump the Nd:GdVO4 crystal emitting at 912 nm, and the Yb:S-FAP laser emitting at 985 nm intracavity pumped at 912 nm. With incident pump power of 17.5 W, intracavity second harmonic generation has been demonstrated with a power of 131 mW at 492.5 nm by using a LBO nonlinear crystal.

Ultra-short wavelength operation in Thulium-doped silica fiber laser with bidirectional pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Xusheng; Guo, Haitao; Yan, Zhijun; Wang, Hushan; Xu, Yantao; Lu, Min; Wang, Yishan; Peng, Bo

2017-02-01

An ultra-short wavelength operation of Tm-doped all fiber laser based on fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) was developed. A bi-directional pump configuration for the ultra-short wavelength operation was designed and investigated for the first time. the laser yielded 3.15W of continuous-wave output at 1706.75nm with a narrow-linewidth of 50pm and a maximum slope efficiency of 42.1%. The dependencies of the slope efficiencies and pump threshold of the laser versus the length of active fiber and reflectivity of the output mirror (FBG) were investigated in detail. An experimental comparative study between two Thulium-doped fiber lasers (TDFLs) with two different pumping configuration(forward unidirectional pumping and bidirectional pumping) was presented. It is indisputable that the development of 1.7μm silicate fiber lasers with Watt-level output power open up a number of heart-stirring and tempting application windows.

Single-frequency oscillation of thin-disk lasers due to phase-matched pumping.

PubMed

Vorholt, Christian; Wittrock, Ulrich

2017-09-04

We present a novel pump concept that should lead to single-frequency operation of thin-disk lasers without the need for etalons or other spectral filters. The single-frequency operation is due to matching the standing wave pattern of partially coherent pump light to the standing wave pattern of the laser light inside the disk. The output power and the optical efficiency of our novel pump concept are compared with conventional pumping. The feasibility of our pump concept was shown in previous experiments.

Solar-pumped laser for free space power transmission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Ja H.

1989-01-01

Laser power transmission; laser systems; space-borne and available lasers; 2-D and 1 MW laser diode array systems; technical issues; iodine solar pumped laser system; and laser power transmission applications are presented. This presentation is represented by viewgraphs only.

Direct solar-pumped iodine laser amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Han, Kwang S.; Hwang, In Heon; Stock, Larry V.

1989-01-01

This semiannual progress report covers the period from September 1, 1988 to February 28, 1989 under NASA grant NAG-1-441 entitled, Direct Solar-Pumped Iodine Laser Amplifier. During this period, the research effort was concentrated on the solar pumped master oscillator power amplifier (MOPA) system using n-C3F7I. In the experimental work, the amplification measurement was conducted to identify the optimum conditions for amplification of the center's Vortek solar simulator pumped iodine laser amplifier. A modeling effort was also pursued to explain the experimental results in the theoretical work. The amplification measurement of the solar simulator pumped iodine laser amplifier is the first amplification experiment on the continuously pumped amplifier. The small signal amplification of 5 was achieved for the triple pass geometry of the 15 cm long solar simulator pumped amplifier at the n-C3F7I pressure of 20 torr, at the flow velocity of 6 m/sec and at the pumping intensity of 1500 solar constants. The XeCl laser pumped iodine laser oscillator, which was developed in the previous research, was employed as the master oscillator for the amplification measurement. In the theoretical work, the rate equations of the amplifier was established and the small signal amplification was calculated for the solar simulator pumped iodine laser amplifier. The amplification calculated from the kinetic equations with the previously measured rate coefficients reveals very large disagreement with experimental measurement. Moreover, the optimum condition predicted by the kinetic equation is quite discrepant with that measured by experiment. This fact indicates the necessity of study in the measurement of rate coefficients of the continuously pumped iodine laser system.

High-power pulsed and CW diode-pumped mode-locked Nd:YAG lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marshall, Larry R.; Hays, A. D.; Kaz, Alex; Kasinski, Jeff; Burnham, R. L.

1991-01-01

The operation of both pulsed and CW diode-pumped mode-locked Nd:YAG lasers are presented. The pulsed laser produced 1.0 mJ with pulsewidths of 90 psec at 20 Hz. The CW pumped laser produced 6 W output at 1.064 microns and 3 W output at 532 nm.

Chaotic LIDAR for Naval Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-29

Perot Fiber Laser PD ^^ /- x —► -(YDF\\ {SMFV X — FBG 1 0 r utput FBG 70 Fabry-Perot Laser Output Pump Power (mW) Fig 2. Fabry-Perot...chaotic fiber laser. Left: Block diagram of the laser. Right: Output power versus pump power. (PD: Pump Diode; FBG : Fiber Braggs Grating; YDF: Ytterbium

Characterization of Nonlinear Effects in Optically Pumped Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-12-01

Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers ( VCSELs ) are an exciting...lines A-3 X AFIT/GEOiENP/93 D-01 Abstract The nonlinear characteristics of optically pumped Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers ( VCSELs ) are...uniformity of the VCSEL fabrication. xi Characterization of Nonlinear Effects in Optically Pumped Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers

Solar Pumped, Alkali Vapor Laser.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-09-04

convert the solar radiation to electricity or longer wavelength blackbody radiation which is then used to power the laser. A directly pumped solar laser...wavelength blackbody radiation which is then used to power the laser. A directly pumped solar laser would utilize a portion of the solar spectrum to directly...sodium dimer (near the upper laser state) and a second body. *, I will review the method we used for measuring these rates and present preliminary

Advancements in high-power high-brightness laser bars and single emitters for pumping and direct diode application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Haiyan; Jiang, Ching-Long J.; Xiong, Yihan; Zhang, Qiang; Inyang, Aloysius; Felder, Jason; Lewin, Alexander; Roff, Robert; Heinemann, Stefan; Schmidt, Berthold; Treusch, Georg

2015-03-01

We have continuously optimized high fill factor bar and packaging design to increase power and efficiency for thin disc laser system pump application. On the other hand, low fill factor bars packaged on the same direct copper bonded (DCB) cooling platform are used to build multi-kilowatt direct diode laser systems. We have also optimized the single emitter designs for fiber laser pump applications. In this paper, we will give an overview of our recent advances in high power high brightness laser bars and single emitters for pumping and direct diode application. We will present 300W bar development results for our next generation thin disk laser pump source. We will also show recent improvements on slow axis beam quality of low fill factor bar and its application on performance improvement of 4-5 kW TruDiode laser system with BPP of 30 mm*mrad from a 600 μm fiber. Performance and reliability results of single emitter for multiemitter fiber laser pump source will be presented as well.

Linearly polarized pumped passively Q-switched Nd:YVO4 microchip laser for Ince-Gaussian laser modes with controllable orientations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Hong-Sen; Zhang, Ming-Ming; Dong, Jun; Ueda, Ken-Ichi

2016-12-01

A tilted, linearly polarized laser diode end-pumped Cr4+:YAG passively Q-switched a-cut Nd:YVO4 microchip laser for generating numerous Ince-Gaussian (IG) laser modes with controllable orientations has been demonstrated by selecting the crystalline orientation of an a-cut Nd:YVO4 crystal. The same IG laser mode with different orientations has been achieved with the same absorbed pump power in a passively Q-switched Nd:YVO4 microchip laser under linearly polarized pumping when the incident pump power and the crystalline orientation of an a-cut Nd:YVO4 crystal are both properly selected. The significant improvement of pulsed laser performance of controllable IG modes has been achieved by selecting the crystalline orientation of an a-cut Nd:YVO4 crystal. The maximum pulse energy is obtained along the a-axis of an a-cut Nd:YVO4 crystal and the highest peak power is achieved along the c-axis of an a-cut Nd:YVO4 crystal, respectively, which has potential applications on quantum computation and optical manipulation. The generation of controllable IG laser modes in microchip lasers under linearly polarized pumping provides a convenient and universal way to control IG laser mode numbers with anisotropic crystal as a gain medium.

Paint removal activities in the US Navy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kozol, Joseph

1993-03-01

Use of methylene chloride and phenol based chemical strippers for aircraft paint removal generates large quantities of hazardous waste and creates health and safety problems for operating personnel. This paper presents an overview of the U.S. Navy's activities in the investigation and implementation of alternate paint stripping methods which will minimize or eliminate hazardous waste and provide a safe operating environment. Alternate paint removal methods under investigation by the Navy at the present time include use of non-hazardous chemical paint removers, xenon flashlamp/CO2 pellets, lasers and plastic media. Plastic media blasting represents a mature technology in current usage for aircraft paint stripping and is being investigated for determination of its effects on Navy composite aircraft configurations.

Femtosecond Amplifiers and Microlasers in the Deep Ultraviolet

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-11-19

Laser guide stars have applications of growing importance to the DOD, astronomy, and environmental monitoring. However, realizing a laser that is...pump wavelength, photoassociation-pumped lasers hold considerable promise as guide star lasers . The most exciting aspect of these results, however...highlights of several experiments that were mentioned briefly in the last section. A. Dual Wavelength Sodium Laser Pumped By Na-Xe Pair Absorption

1-kilowatt CW all-fiber laser oscillator pumped with wavelength-beam-combined diode stacks.

PubMed

Xiao, Y; Brunet, F; Kanskar, M; Faucher, M; Wetter, A; Holehouse, N

2012-01-30

We have demonstrated a monolithic cladding-pumped ytterbium-doped single all-fiber laser oscillator generating 1 kW of CW signal power at 1080 nm with 71% slope efficiency and near diffraction-limited beam quality. Fiber components were highly integrated on "spliceless" passive fibers to promote laser efficiency and alleviate non-linear effects. The laser was pumped through a 7:1 pump combiner with seven 200-W 91x nm fiber-pigtailed wavelength-beam-combined diode-stack modules. The signal power of such a single all-fiber laser oscillator showed no evidence of roll-over, and the highest output was limited only by available pump power.

Mather-type dense plasma focus as a new optical pump for short-wavelength high-power lasers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fanning, J.J.; Kim, K.

For the first time, a Mather-type dense plasma focus (MDPF) is successfully operated as an optical pump for lasers. Rhodamine-6G dye is optically pumped using the MDPF fluorescence, producing a laser pulse 1 ..mu..s in duration and more than 50 kW in output power. No optimization is attempted either of the laser cavity or of the lasing medium concentration and volume. A brief description of the experimental setup is presented, along with a summary and discussion of the results. The advantages of the present optical pump source and, in particular, their implications for the pumping of short-wavelength lasers are discussed.

Schemes for efficient QW pumping of AlGaInP disk lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brauch, Uwe; Mateo, Cherry May N.; Kahle, Hermann; Bek, Roman; Jetter, Michael; Abdou Ahmed, Marwan; Michler, Peter; Graf, Thomas

2017-02-01

Keys to high-power operation of disk lasers are a thin active layer, a small Stokes shift and an efficient cooling, best realized with a limited number of QWs which are pumped close to the laser wavelength and which are in close contact with one or two diamond heat sinks. To get sufficient pump absorption many passes of the pump radiation are needed. This can be realized either by taking advantage of intrinsic resonances (designed for the pump radiation) or by an external multi-pass optics (known from Yb disk lasers) or a combination of both. The various options will be discussed and some results for AlGaInP disk lasers will be presented.

High-power diode laser bars as pump sources for fiber lasers and amplifiers (Invited Paper)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonati, G.; Hennig, P.; Wolff, D.; Voelckel, H.; Gabler, T.; Krause, U.; T'nnermann, A.; Reich, M.; Limpert, J.; Werner, E.; Liem, A.

2005-04-01

Fiber lasers are pumped by fibercoupled, multimode single chip devices at 915nm. That"s what everybody assumes when asked for the type of fiber laser pumps and it was like this for many years. Coming up as an amplifier for telecom applications, the amount of pump power needed was in the range of several watts. Highest pump powers for a limited market entered the ten watts range. This is a range of power that can be covered by highly reliable multimode chips, that have to survive up to 25 years, e.g. in submarine applications. With fiber lasers entering the power range and the application fields of rod and thin disc lasers, the amount of pump power needed raised into the area of several hundred watts. In this area of pump power, usually bar based pumps are used. This is due to the much higher cost pressure of the industrial customers compared to telecom customers. We expect more then 70% of all industrial systems to be pumped by diode laser bars. Predictions that bar based pumps survive for just a thousand hours in cw-operation and fractions of this if pulsed are wrong. Bar based pumps have to perform on full power for 10.000h on Micro channel heat sinks and 20.000h on passive heatsinks in industrial applications, and they do. We will show a variety of data, "real" long time tests and statistics from the JENOPTIK Laserdiode as well as data of thousands of bars in the field, showing that bar based pumps are not just well suitable for industrial applications on high power levels, but even showing benefits compared to chip based pumps. And it"s reasonable, that the same objectives of cost effectiveness, power and lifetime apply as well to thin disc, rod and slab lasers as to fiber lasers. Due to the pumping of fiber lasers, examples will be shown, how to utilize bars for high brightness fiber coupling. In this area, the automation is on its way to reduce the costs on the fibercoupling, similar to what had been done in the single chip business. All these efforts are part of the JENOPTIK Laserdiode"s LongLifeTechnologie.

Efficient solar-pumped Nd:YAG laser by a double-stage light-guide/V-groove cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Almeida, Joana; Liang, Dawei

2011-05-01

Since the first reported Nd:YAG solar laser, researchers have been exploiting parabolic mirrors and heliostats for enhancing laser output performance. We are now investigating the production of an efficient solar-pumped laser for the reduction of magnesium from magnesium oxide, which could be an alternative solution to fossil fuel. Therefore both high conversion efficiency and excellent beam quality are imperative. By using a single fused silica light guide of rectangular cross section, highly concentrated solar radiation at the focal spot of a stationary parabolic mirror is efficiently transferred to a water-flooded V-groove pump cavity. It allows for the double-pass absorption of pump light along a 4mm diameter, 30mm length, 1.1at% Nd:YAG rod. Optimum pumping parameters and solar laser output power are found through ZEMAXTM non-sequential ray-tracing and LASCADTM laser cavity analysis. 11.0 W of multimode laser output power with excellent beam profile is numerically calculated, corresponding to 6.1W/m2 collection efficiency. To validate the proposed pumping scheme, an experimental setup of the double-stage light-guide/V-groove cavity was built. 78% of highly concentrated solar radiation was efficiently transmitted by the fused silica light guide. The proposed pumping scheme can be an effective solution for enhancing solar laser performances when compared to other side-pump configurations.

IPL vs PDL in treatment of facial erythema: A split-face study.

PubMed

Handler, Marc Z; Bloom, Bradley S; Goldberg, David J

2017-12-01

Lasers and noncoherent intense pulse light sources effectively treat vascular lesions. Intense pulsed light (IPL), a nonablative treatment for photorejuvenation, uses a flashlamp which emits noncoherent light between 400 and 1400 nm. The light may be filtered to target a specific chromophore. The pulsed dye laser (PDL), at 595 nm, has been the historical standard of care in the treatment of facial erythema. We sought to determine whether IPL may be used in lieu of PDL in reducing facial erythema. To determine whether IPL may be used to treat facial erythema with equal efficacy as PDL used at nonpurpuric settings. Prospective investigation of a cohort of 15 subjects with unwanted bilateral facial erythema. Subjects presented for two treatments with an IPL (BBL™ BroadBand Light; Sciton, Palo Alto, CA) to one half of the face and PDL (Cynergy™; Cynosure, Westford, MA) to the other half. Patients with facial erythema may be successfully treated with IPL or PDL. Intense pulsed light and pulsed dye laser with nonpurpuric settings were equally effective in reducing facial erythema. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Nd:YAG end pumped by semiconductor laser arrays for free space optical communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sipes, D. L., Jr.

1985-01-01

Preliminary experimental results are reported for a diode-pumped Nd:YAG laser employing a tightly focused end-pump geometry. The resonator configuration is planoconcave, with the pumped end of the Nd:YAG rod being coated for high reflection at 1.06 microns. This geometry rectifies nearly all the inefficiencies plaguing side-pumped schemes. This laser is further considered as a candidate for optical communication over the deep space channel.

Fiber Raman laser and amplifier pumped by Nd3+:YVO4 solid state laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Deming; Zhang, Minming; Liu, Shuang; Nie, Mingju; Wang, Ying

2005-04-01

Pumping source is the key technology of fiber Raman amplifiers (FRA) which are important for ultra long haul and high bit rate dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) systems. In this paper the research work of the project, "Fiber Raman Laser and Amplifier pumped by Nd3+:YVO4 Solid State Laser", supported by the National High-tech Program (863-program) of China is introduced, in which a novel 14xx nm pump module with fine characteristics of high efficiency, simplicity, compactness and low cost is researched and developed. A compact 1342 nm Nd3+:YVO4 diode pumped solid state laser (DPSSL) module is developed with the total laser power of 655mW and the slope efficiency of 42.6% pumped by a 2W 808nm laser diode (LD). A special C-lens fiber collimator is designed to couple the 1342nm laser beam into a piece of single mode fiber (SMF) and the coupling efficiency of 80% is reached. The specific 14xx nm output laser is generated from a single stage Raman resonator which includes a pair of fiber Bragg gratings and a piece of Germanic-silicate or Phospho-silicate fiber pumped by such DPSSL module. The slope efficiency for conversion from 1342 to 14xx nm radiation is 75% and the laser power is more than 300mW each. Finally, Raman gain experiments are carried out with 100km SMF. 100 nm bandwidth with 10dB on-off Raman gain and 1.1dB gain flatness is achieved by pumped at 1425, 1438, 1455 and 1490nm.

Effect of pump polarization direction on power characteristics in monolithic microchip Nd:YAG dual-frequency laser.

PubMed

Chen, Hao; Zhang, Shulian; Tan, Yidong

2016-04-10

The pump polarization direction can greatly influence the characteristics of the laser diode end-pumped monolithic microchip Nd:YAG dual-frequency laser. We experimentally observe the lasing thresholds and the optical powers of two splitting modes versus the pump polarization direction. The effect of the pump-induced gain anisotropy on the mode oscillation sequence is analyzed. And the effect on the intensities of these modes is also proved with a rate equation model. This study contributes to the improvement of the stability and the reliability of the Nd:YAG dual-frequency laser.

Kerr-lens mode-locked Ti:Sapphire laser pumped by a single laser diode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kopylov, D. A.; Esaulkov, M. N.; Kuritsyn, I. I.; Mavritskiy, A. O.; Perminov, B. E.; Konyashchenko, A. V.; Murzina, T. V.; Maydykovskiy, A. I.

2018-04-01

The performance of a Ti:sapphire laser pumped by a single 461 nm laser diode is presented for both the continuous-wave and the mode-locked regimes of operation. We introduce a simple astigmatism correction scheme for the laser diode beam consisting of two cylindrical lenses affecting the pump beam along the fast axis of the laser diode, which provides the mode-matching between the nearly square-shaped pump beam and the cavity mode. The resulting efficiency of the suggested Ti:Sapphire oscillator pumped by such a laser diode is analyzed for the Ti:sapphire crystals of 3 mm, 5 mm and 10 mm in length. We demonstrate that such a system provides the generation of ultrashort pulses up to 15 fs in duration with the repetition rate of 87 MHz, the average power being 170 mW.

Vertical cavity surface-emitting semiconductor lasers with injection laser pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McDaniel, D. L., Jr.; McInerney, J. G.; Raja, M. Y. A.; Schaus, C. F.; Brueck, S. R. J.

1990-05-01

Continuous-wave GaAs/GaAlAs edge-emitting diode lasers were used to pump GaAs/AlGaAs and InGaAs/AlGaAs vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) with resonant periodic gain (RPG) at room temperature. Pump threshold as low as 11 mW, output powers as high as 27 mW at 850 nm, and external differential quantum efficiencies of about 70 percent were observed in GaAs/AlGaAs surface -emitters; spectral brightness 22 times that of the pump laser was also observed. Output powers as high as 85 mW at 950 nm and differential quantum efficiencies of up to 58 percent were recorded for the InGaAs surface-emitting laser. This is the highest quasi-CW output power ever reported for any RPG VCSEL, and the first time such a device has been pumped using an injection laser diode.

Traveling-wave laser-produced-plasma energy source for photoionization laser pumping and lasers incorporating said

DOEpatents

Sher, Mark H.; Macklin, John J.; Harris, Stephen E.

1989-09-26

A traveling-wave, laser-produced-plasma, energy source used to obtain single-pass gain saturation of a photoionization pumped laser. A cylindrical lens is used to focus a pump laser beam to a long line on a target. Grooves are cut in the target to present a surface near normal to the incident beam and to reduce the area, and hence increase the intensity and efficiency, of plasma formation.

Improving the efficiency of x-ray lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tallents, Gregory J.; Zeitoun, Philippe; Behjat, A.; Demir, A.; Holden, M.; Krishnan, J.; Lewis, Ciaran L. S.; MacPhee, Andrew G.; Warwick, P. J.; Nantel, Marc; Jamelot, Gerard; Rus, Bedrich; Jaegle, Pierre; Klisnick, Annie; Goedtkindt, P.; Carillon, Antoine; Fill, Ernst E.; Li, Yuelin; Pretzler, Georg; Schloegl, Dieter; Steingruber, Juergen; Neely, David; Norreys, Peter A.; Key, Michael H.; Zhang, Jie; Pert, Geoffrey J.; Healy, S. B.; Plowes, J. A.

1995-09-01

Current successful approaches for achieving soft x-ray lasing typically require pumping laser pulses of duration approximately ns and energy approximately kJ (collisionally pumped schemes) or approximately ps pulses and powers of approximately several TW (recombination-pumped schemes). For applications, it is important to improve the efficiency of soft x-ray lasers and so reduce the required power of pumping lasers. The effect of pre- pulse on neon-like collisionally pumped lasers has been investigated using the LULI laser (Ecole Polytechnique, France). A small pre-pulse level approximately 10-3 of the main pulse energy was found to increase the J equals 0 minus 1 neon-like zinc laser output at 21 nm by an order-of-magnitude with a comparable increase in efficiency. A double pumping laser pulse on neon-like yttrium lasing output at 15 nm obtained with the VULCAN laser (Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, England) was also found to increase the x-ray lasing efficiency. With adiabatically cooled recombination lasing, it is shown that approximately 2 ps pulses are optimum for achieving the desired ionization balance for lasing output. The possibility of achieving recombination lasing at short wavelengths on lithium-like ions with longer pulse lasers has been investigated using the ASTERIX laser (Max-Planck Quantenoptik, Germany). These results are presented and interpreted to provide possible directions for improving the efficiency of x-ray lasers.

Femtosecond Cr:LiSAF and Cr:LiCAF lasers pumped by tapered diode lasers.

PubMed

Demirbas, Umit; Schmalz, Michael; Sumpf, Bernd; Erbert, Götz; Petrich, Gale S; Kolodziejski, Leslie A; Fujimoto, James G; Kärtner, Franz X; Leitenstorfer, Alfred

2011-10-10

We report compact, low-cost and efficient Cr:Colquiriite lasers that are pumped by high brightness tapered laser diodes. The tapered laser diodes provided 1 to 1.2 W of output power around 675 nm, at an electrical-to-optical conversion efficiency of about 30%. Using a single tapered diode laser as the pump source, we have demonstrated output powers of 500 mW and 410 mW together with slope efficiencies of 47% and 41% from continuous wave (cw) Cr:LiSAF and Cr:LiCAF lasers, respectively. In cw mode-locked operation, sub-100-fs pulse trains with average power between 200 mW and 250 mW were obtained at repetition rates around 100 MHz. Upon pumping the Cr:Colquiriite lasers with two tapered laser diodes (one from each side of the crystal), we have observed scaling of cw powers to 850 mW in Cr:LiSAF and to 650 mW in Cr:LiCAF. From the double side pumped Cr:LiCAF laser, we have also obtained ~220 fs long pulses with 5.4 nJ of pulse energy at 77 MHz repetition rate. These are the highest energy levels reported from Cr:Colquiriite so far at these repetition rates. Our findings indicate that tapered diodes in the red spectral region are likely to become the standard pump source for Cr:Colquiriite lasers in the near future. Moreover, the simplified pumping scheme might facilitate efficient commercialization of Cr:Colquiriite systems, bearing the potential to significantly boost applications of cw and femtosecond lasers in this spectral region (750-1000 nm).

885-nm Pumped Ceramic Nd:YAG Master Oscillator Power Amplifier Laser System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yu, Anthony

2012-01-01

The performance of a traditional diode pumped solid-state laser that is typically pumped with 808-nm laser diode array (LDA) and crystalline Nd:YAG was improved by using 885-nm LDAs and ceramic Nd:YAG. The advantage is lower quantum defect, which will improve the thermal loading on laser gain medium, resulting in a higher-performance laser. The use of ceramic Nd:YAG allows a higher Nd dopant level that will make up the lower absorption at the 885-nm wavelength on Nd:YAG. When compared to traditional 808-nm pump, 885-nm diodes will have 30% less thermal load (or wasted heat) and will thus see a similar percentage improvement in the overall laser efficiency. In order to provide a more efficient laser system for future flight missions that require the use of low-repetition- rate (1% Nd. To make certain that the absorption at 885 nm is on the same par as the 808-nm diode, the Nd:YAG material needs to be doped with higher concentration of Nd. Ceramic Nd:YAG is the only material that can be tailored to specific needs.

Flow tube used to cool solar-pumped laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1968-01-01

A flow tube has been designed and constructed to provide two major functions in the application of a laser beam for transmission of both sound and video. It maintains the YAG laser at the proper operating temperature of 300 degrees K under solar pumping conditions, and it serves as a pump cavity for the laser crystal.

Diode pumped Nd:YAG laser development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reno, C. W.; Herzog, D. G.

1976-01-01

A low power Nd:YAG laser was constructed which employs GaAs injection lasers as a pump source. Power outputs of 125 mW TEM CW with the rod at 250 K and the pump at 180 K were achieved for 45 W input power to the pump source. Operation of the laser, with array and laser at a common heat sink temperature of 250 K, was inhibited by difficulties in constructing long-life GaAs LOC laser arrays. Tests verified pumping with output power of 20 to 30 mW with rod and pump at 250 K. Although life tests with single LOC GaAs diodes were somewhat encouraging (with single diodes operating as long as 9000 hours without degradation), failures of single diodes in arrays continue to occur, and 50 percent power is lost in a few hundred hours at 1 percent duty factor. Because of the large recent advances in the state of the art of CW room temperature AlGaAs diodes, their demonstrated lifetimes of greater than 5,000 hours, and their inherent advantages for this task, it is recommended that these sources be used for further CW YAG injection laser pumping work.

Stable TEM00-mode Nd:YAG solar laser operation by a twisted fused silica light-guide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouadjemine, R.; Liang, D.; Almeida, J.; Mehellou, S.; Vistas, C. R.; Kellou, A.; Guillot, E.

2017-12-01

To improve the output beam stability of a TEM00-mode solar-pumped laser, a twisted fused silica light-guide was used to achieve uniform pumping along a 3 mm diameter and 50 mm length Nd:YAG rod. The concentrated solar power at the focal spot of a primary parabolic mirror with 1.18 m2 effective collection area was efficiently coupled to the entrance aperture of a 2D-CPC/2V-shaped pump cavity, within which the thin laser rod was pumped. Optimum solar laser design parameters were found through ZEMAX© non-sequential ray-tracing and LASCAD© laser cavity analysis codes. 2.3 W continuous-wave TEM00-mode 1064 nm laser power was measured, corresponding to 1.96 W/m2 collection efficiency and 2.2 W laser beam brightness figure of merit. Excellent TEM00-mode laser beam profile at M2 ≤ 1.05 and very good output power stability of less than 1.6% were achieved. Heliostat orientation error dependent laser power variation was considerably less than previous solar laser pumping schemes.

Design and physical features of inductive coaxial copper vapor lasers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Batenin, V. M.; Kazaryan, M. A.; Karpukhin, V. T.

A physical model of a copper vapor laser pumped by a pulse-periodic inductive (electrodeless) discharge is considered. The feasibility of efficient laser pumping by an inductive discharge and reaching high output parameters comparable to those of conventional copper vapor lasers pumped by a longitudinal electrode discharge is demonstrated. The design and physical features of an inductive copper vapor laser with an annular working volume are discussed.

Diode-pumped laser with improved pumping system

DOEpatents

Chang, Jim J.

2004-03-09

A laser wherein pump radiation from laser diodes is delivered to a pump chamber and into the lasing medium by quasi-three-dimensional compound parabolic concentrator light channels. The light channels have reflective side walls with a curved surface and reflective end walls with a curved surface. A flow tube between the lasing medium and the light channel has a roughened surface.

High-power ultralong-wavelength Tm-doped silica fiber laser cladding-pumped with a random distributed feedback fiber laser

PubMed Central

Jin, Xiaoxi; Du, Xueyuan; Wang, Xiong; Zhou, Pu; Zhang, Hanwei; Wang, Xiaolin; Liu, Zejin

2016-01-01

We demonstrated a high-power ultralong-wavelength Tm-doped silica fiber laser operating at 2153 nm with the output power exceeding 18 W and the slope efficiency of 25.5%. A random distributed feedback fiber laser with the center wavelength of 1173 nm was employed as pump source of Tm-doped fiber laser for the first time. No amplified spontaneous emissions or parasitic oscillations were observed when the maximum output power reached, which indicates that employing 1173 nm random distributed feedback fiber laser as pump laser is a feasible and promising scheme to achieve high-power emission of long-wavelength Tm-doped fiber laser. The output power of this Tm-doped fiber laser could be further improved by optimizing the length of active fiber, reflectivity of FBGs, increasing optical efficiency of pump laser and using better temperature management. We also compared the operation of 2153 nm Tm-doped fiber lasers pumped with 793 nm laser diodes, and the maximum output powers were limited to ~2 W by strong amplified spontaneous emission and parasitic oscillation in the range of 1900–2000 nm. PMID:27416893

High-power ultralong-wavelength Tm-doped silica fiber laser cladding-pumped with a random distributed feedback fiber laser.

PubMed

Jin, Xiaoxi; Du, Xueyuan; Wang, Xiong; Zhou, Pu; Zhang, Hanwei; Wang, Xiaolin; Liu, Zejin

2016-07-15

We demonstrated a high-power ultralong-wavelength Tm-doped silica fiber laser operating at 2153 nm with the output power exceeding 18 W and the slope efficiency of 25.5%. A random distributed feedback fiber laser with the center wavelength of 1173 nm was employed as pump source of Tm-doped fiber laser for the first time. No amplified spontaneous emissions or parasitic oscillations were observed when the maximum output power reached, which indicates that employing 1173 nm random distributed feedback fiber laser as pump laser is a feasible and promising scheme to achieve high-power emission of long-wavelength Tm-doped fiber laser. The output power of this Tm-doped fiber laser could be further improved by optimizing the length of active fiber, reflectivity of FBGs, increasing optical efficiency of pump laser and using better temperature management. We also compared the operation of 2153 nm Tm-doped fiber lasers pumped with 793 nm laser diodes, and the maximum output powers were limited to ~2 W by strong amplified spontaneous emission and parasitic oscillation in the range of 1900-2000 nm.

Detailed Balance Limit of Efficiency of Broadband-Pumped Lasers.

PubMed

Nechayev, Sergey; Rotschild, Carmel

2017-09-13

Broadband light sources are a wide class of pumping schemes for lasers including LEDs, sunlight and flash lamps. Recently, efficient coupling of broadband light to high-quality micro-cavities has been demonstrated for on-chip applications and low-threshold solar-pumped lasers via cascade energy transfer. However, the conversion of incoherent to coherent light comes with an inherent price of reduced efficiency, which has yet to be assessed. In this paper, we derive the detailed balance limit of efficiency of broadband-pumped lasers and discuss how it is affected by the need to maintain a threshold population inversion and thermodynamically dictated minimal Stokes' shift. We show that lasers' slope efficiency is analogous to the nominal efficiency of solar cells, limited by thermalisation losses and additional unavoidable Stokes' shift. The lasers' power efficiency is analogous to the detailed balance limit of efficiency of solar cells, affected by the cavity mirrors and impedance matching factor, respectively. As an example we analyze the specific case of solar-pumped sensitized Nd 3+ :YAG-like lasers and define the conditions to reach their thermodynamic limit of efficiency. Our work establishes an upper theoretical limit for the efficiency of broadband-pumped lasers. Our general, yet flexible model also provides a way to incorporate other optical and thermodynamic losses and, hence, to estimate the efficiency of non-ideal broadband-pumped lasers.

Highly Efficient Nd:yag Lasers for Free-space Optical Communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sipes, D. L., Jr.

1985-01-01

A highly efficient Nd:YAG laser end-pumped by semiconductor lasers as a possible free-space optical communications source is discussed. Because this concept affords high pumping densities, a long absorption length, and excellent mode-matching characteristics, it is estimated that electrical-to-optical efficiencies greater than 5% could be achieved. Several engineering aspects such as resonator size and configuration, pump collecting optics, and thermal effects are also discussed. Finally, possible methods for combining laser-diode pumps to achieve higher output powers are illustrated.

Exploding conducting film laser pumping apparatus

DOEpatents

Ware, Kenneth D.; Jones, Claude R.

1986-01-01

Exploding conducting film laser optical pumping apparatus. The 342-nm molecular iodine and the 1.315-.mu.m atomic iodine lasers have been optically pumped by intense light from exploding-metal-film discharges. Brightness temperatures for the exploding-film discharges were approximately 25,000 K. Although lower output energies were achieved for such discharges when compared to exploding-wire techniques, the larger surface area and smaller inductance inherent in the exploding-film should lead to improved efficiency for optically-pumped gas lasers.

Diode pumped alkali vapor fiber laser

DOEpatents

Payne, Stephen A.; Beach, Raymond J.; Dawson, Jay W.; Krupke, William F.

2007-10-23

A method and apparatus is provided for producing near-diffraction-limited laser light, or amplifying near-diffraction-limited light, in diode pumped alkali vapor photonic-band-gap fiber lasers or amplifiers. Laser light is both substantially generated and propagated in an alkali gas instead of a solid, allowing the nonlinear and damage limitations of conventional solid core fibers to be circumvented. Alkali vapor is introduced into the center hole of a photonic-band-gap fiber, which can then be pumped with light from a pump laser and operated as an oscillator with a seed beam, or can be configured as an amplifier.

Diode pumped alkali vapor fiber laser

DOEpatents

Payne, Stephen A [Castro Valley, CA; Beach, Raymond J [Livermore, CA; Dawson, Jay W [Livermore, CA; Krupke, William F [Pleasanton, CA

2006-07-26

A method and apparatus is provided for producing near-diffraction-limited laser light, or amplifying near-diffraction-limited light, in diode pumped alkali vapor photonic-band-gap fiber lasers or amplifiers. Laser light is both substantially generated and propagated in an alkali gas instead of a solid, allowing the nonlinear and damage limitations of conventional solid core fibers to be circumvented. Alkali vapor is introduced into the center hole of a photonic-band-gap fiber, which can then be pumped with light from a pump laser and operated as an oscillator with a seed beam, or can be configured as an amplifier.

Microchip solid-state cylindrical vector lasers with orthogonally polarized dual laser-diode end pumping.

PubMed

Otsuka, Kenju; Chu, Shu-Chun

2013-05-01

We report a simple method for generating cylindrical vector beams directly from laser-diode (LD)-pumped microchip solid-state lasers by using dual end-pumping beams. Radially as well as azimuthally polarized vector field emissions have been generated from the common c-cut Nd:GdVO4 laser cavity merely by controlling the focus positions of orthogonally polarized LD off-axis pump beams. Hyperbolically polarized vector fields have also been observed, in which the cylindrical symmetry of vector fields is broken. Experimental results have been well reproduced by numerical simulations.

Laser spark distribution and ignition system

DOEpatents

Woodruff, Steven [Morgantown, WV; McIntyre, Dustin L [Morgantown, WV

2008-09-02

A laser spark distribution and ignition system that reduces the high power optical requirements for use in a laser ignition and distribution system allowing for the use of optical fibers for delivering the low peak energy pumping pulses to a laser amplifier or laser oscillator. An optical distributor distributes and delivers optical pumping energy from an optical pumping source to multiple combustion chambers incorporating laser oscillators or laser amplifiers for inducing a laser spark within a combustion chamber. The optical distributor preferably includes a single rotating mirror or lens which deflects the optical pumping energy from the axis of rotation and into a plurality of distinct optical fibers each connected to a respective laser media or amplifier coupled to an associated combustion chamber. The laser spark generators preferably produce a high peak power laser spark, from a single low power pulse. The laser spark distribution and ignition system has application in natural gas fueled reciprocating engines, turbine combustors, explosives and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy diagnostic sensors.

Resonantly diode-pumped eye-safe Er:YAG laser with fiber-shaped crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Němec, Michal; Šulc, Jan; Hlinomaz, Kryštof; Jelínková, Helena; Nejezchleb, Karel; Čech, Miroslav

2018-02-01

Solid-state eye-safe lasers are interesting sources for various applications, such as lidar, remote sensing, and ranging. A resonantly diode-pumped Er:YAG laser could be one of them allowing to reach a tunable laser emission in 1.6 μm spectral region. To overcome low pump absorption and poor pumping beam quality generated by commercially available laser diode, an active medium could be formed to long and thin laser rod guiding pumping radiation. Such an effective cooling during a high power pumping, which is a "crystal-fiber" benefit, may be useful for "standard" crystal active medium. The main goal of this work was to investigate the laser characteristics of new developed Er:YAG crystal with a special shape for diode-pumping. Er:YAG fiber-shape crystal with square cross-section (1x1mm) and 40mm in length was doped by 0.1% Er3+ ions. All sides of this crystal were polished and in addition the end-faces of it were antireflection coatings for the wavelength 1470 and 1645 nm. As a pump system, a fiber coupled laser diode (f = 10 Hz, t = 10 ms) emitting radiation at 1465 nm wavelength was used. Er:YAG fiber-shape crystal was placed onto a copper holder in the 85 mm long plan-concave resonator consisting of a pump flat mirror and output curved (r = 150 mm) coupler with a reflectivity of 96 % @ 1645 nm. The dependence of the output peak power on absorbed pump power was investigated and the maximum 0.8 W was obtained. The corresponding slope efficiency was 14.5 %. The emitting wavelength was equaled to 1645 nm (4 nm linewidth, FWHM). The spatial beam structure was close to the Gaussian mode.

Method for optical pumping of thin laser media at high average power

DOEpatents

Zapata, Luis E [Livermore, CA; Beach, Raymond J [Livermore, CA; Honea, Eric C [Sunol, CA; Payne, Stephen A [Castro Valley, CA

2004-07-13

A thin, planar laser material is bonded to a light guide of an index-matched material forming a composite disk. Diode array or other pump light is introduced into the composite disk through the edges of the disk. Pump light trapped within the composite disk depletes as it multi-passes the laser medium before reaching an opposing edge of the disk. The resulting compound optical structure efficiently delivers concentrated pump light and to a laser medium of minimum thickness. The external face of the laser medium is used for cooling. A high performance cooler attached to the external face of the laser medium rejects heat. Laser beam extraction is parallel to the heat flux to minimize optical distortions.

Direct solar pumping of semiconductor lasers: A feasibility study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, Neal G.

1992-01-01

This report describes results of NASA Grant NAG-1-1148, entitled Direct Solar Pumping of Semiconductor Lasers: A Feasibility Study. The goals of this study were to provide a preliminary assessment of the feasibility of pumping semiconductor lasers in space with directly focused sunlight and to identify semiconductor laser structures expected to operate at the lowest possible focusing intensities. It should be emphasized that the structures under consideration would provide direct optical-to-optical conversion of sunlight into laser light in a single crystal, in contrast to a configuration consisting of a solar cell or storage battery electrically pumping a current injection laser. With external modulation, such lasers could perhaps be efficient sources for intersatellite communications. We proposed specifically to develop a theoretical model of semiconductor quantum-well lasers photopumped by a broadband source, test it against existing experimental data where possible, and apply it to estimating solar pumping requirements and identifying optimum structures for operation at low pump intensities. These tasks have been accomplished, as described in this report of our completed project. The report is organized as follows: Some general considerations relevant to the solar-pumped semiconductor laser problem are discussed in Section 2, and the types of structures chosen for specific investigation are described. The details of the laser model we developed for this work are then outlined in Section 3. In Section 4, results of our study are presented, including designs for optimum lattice-matched and strained-layer solar-pumped quantum-well lasers and threshold pumping estimates for these structures. It was hoped at the outset of this work that structures could be identified which could be expected to operate continuously at solar photoexcitation intensities of several thousand suns, and this indeed turned out to be the case as described in this section. Our project is summarized in Section 5, and information on publications resulting from this work is provided in Section 6.

Analytical solution of the transient temperature profile in gain medium of passively Q-switched microchip laser.

PubMed

Han, Xiahui; Li, Jianlang

2014-11-01

The transient temperature evolution in the gain medium of a continuous wave (CW) end-pumped passively Q-switched microchip (PQSM) laser is analyzed. By approximating the time-dependent population inversion density as a sawtooth function of time and treating the time-dependent pump absorption of a CW end-pumped PQSM laser as the superposition of an infinite series of short pumping pulses, the analytical expressions of transient temperature evolution and distribution in the gain medium for four- and three-level laser systems, respectively, are given. These analytical solutions are applied to evaluate the transient temperature evolution and distribution in the gain medium of CW end-pumped PQSM Nd:YAG and Yb:YAG lasers.

Carrier-envelope frequency stabilization of a Ti:sapphire oscillator using different pump lasers.

PubMed

Vernaleken, Andreas; Schmidt, Bernhard; Wolferstetter, Martin; Hänsch, Theodor W; Holzwarth, Ronald; Hommelhoff, Peter

2012-07-30

We investigate the suitability of various commercially available pump lasers for operation with a carrier-envelope offset frequency stabilized Ti:sapphire oscillator. Although the tested pump lasers differ in their setup and properties (e.g., single vs. multi-mode), we find that they are all well-suited for the purpose. The residual rms phase noise (integrated between 20 Hz and 5 MHz) of the stabilized oscillator is found to be below 160 mrad with each pump laser, corresponding to less than 1/40 of an optical cycle. Differences in performance vary slightly. In particular, our results indicate that the latest generation of multi-mode pump lasers can be used for applications where precise phase control of the oscillator is strictly required.

Theoretical analyses of an injection-locked diode-pumped rubidium vapor laser.

PubMed

Cai, He; Gao, Chunqing; Liu, Xiaoxu; Wang, Shunyan; Yu, Hang; Rong, Kepeng; An, Guofei; Han, Juhong; Zhang, Wei; Wang, Hongyuan; Wang, You

2018-04-02

Diode-pumped alkali lasers (DPALs) have drawn much attention since they were proposed in 2001. The narrow-linewidth DPAL can be potentially applied in the fields of coherent communication, laser radar, and atomic spectroscopy. In this study, we propose a novel protocol to narrow the width of one kind of DPAL, diode-pumped rubidium vapor laser (DPRVL), by use of an injection locking technique. A kinetic model is first set up for an injection-locked DPRVL with the end-pumped configuration. The laser tunable duration is also analyzed for a continuous wave (CW) injection-locked DPRVL system. Then, the influences of the pump power, power of a master laser, and reflectance of an output coupler on the output performance are theoretically analyzed. The study should be useful for design of a narrow-linewidth DPAL with the relatively high output.

Single-frequency tunable laser for pumping cesium frequency standards

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhuravleva, O V; Ivanov, Andrei V; Leonovich, A I

2006-08-31

A single-frequency tunable laser for pumping the cesium frequency standard is studied. It is shown experimentally that the laser emits at a single frequency despite the fact that a few longitudinal modes of the external cavity fall within the reflection band of a fibre Bragg grating (FBG) written in the optical fibre. The laser wavelength can be tuned by varying the pump current of the laser, its temperature, and the FBG temperature. The laser linewidth does not exceed 2 MHz for 10 mW of output power. (lasers)

Synchronous dual-wavelength pulse generation in coaxial pumping scheme and its application in terahertz difference frequency generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yang; Zhong, Kai; Mei, Jialin; Jin, Shuo; Ge, Meng; Xu, Degang; Yao, Jianquan

2018-02-01

A compact and flexible dual-wavelength laser with combined two laser crystals (a-cut and c-cut Nd:YLF) as the gain media under coaxially laser-diode (LD) end-pumping configuration was demonstrated and μW-level THz wave was generated based on difference frequency generation (DFG) in a GaSe crystal. The dynamics of coaxial pumping dualwavelength laser was theoretically investigated, showing that the power ratio and pulse interval for both wavelengths could be tuned by balancing the gains at both wavelengths via tuning pump focal position. Synchronized orthogonal 1047/1053 nm laser pulses were obtained and optimal power ratio was realized with the total output power of 2.92W at 5 kHz pumped by 10-W LD power. With an 8-mm-long GaSe crystal, 0.93 μW THz wave at 1.64 THz (182 μm) was generated. Such coaxially LD end-pumped lasers can be extended to various combinations of neodymium doped laser media to produce different THz wavelengths for costless and portable applications.

40nm tunable multi-wavelength fiber laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Qingsong; Wang, Tianshu; Zhang, Peng; Dong, Keyan; Jiang, Huilin

2014-12-01

A Brillouin-Erbium multi-wavelength tunable fiber laser at C-band is demostrated. A 10 km long singlemode fiber(SMF), a 6 m long Erbium-doped fiber, two couplers, a wavelength division multiplexer, a isolator, an optical circulator, a 980nm pump laser and a narrow linewidth tunable laser are included in the structure. A segment of 10 km-long single-mode fiber (SMF) between the two ports of a 1×2 coupler is used as Brillouin gain. Ebiumdoped fiber amplifier (EDFA) consists of a segment of 6m er-doped fiber pumped by 980nm laser dioder . A narrow linewidth tunable laser from 1527 to 1607 nm as Brillouin bump, At the Brillouin pump power of 8mW and the 980 nm pump power of 400 mw, 16 output channels with 0.08 nm spacing and tuning range of 40 nm from 1527 nm to 1567 nm are achieved. We realize the tunable output of wavelength by adjusting the 980 nm pump power and the Brillouin pump wavelength. Stability of the multiwavelength fiber laser is also observed.

1.88 Micrometers InGaAsP Pumped, Room Temperature Ho: LuAG Laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barnes, Norman P.; Amzajerdian, Farzin; Reichle, Donald J.; Busch, George; Leisher, Paul

2009-01-01

A room temperature, directly diode pumped Ho:LuAG laser oscillated for the first time. Direct pumping of the Ho upper laser manifold maximizes efficiency, minimizes heating, and eliminates Ho:Tm energy sharing. Design and performance are presented.

Experimental investigation of a pulsed Rb-Ar excimer-pumped alkali laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Hongling; Wang, Zhimin; Zhang, Fengfeng; Wang, Mingqiang; Tian, Zhaoshuo; Peng, Qinjun; Cui, Dafu; Xu, Zuyan

2017-03-01

We present experimental results of an exciplex-pumped alkali laser (XPAL) at 780 nm based on the 52P3/2 → 52S1/2 transition of the Rb atom in mixtures of Rb vapor and Ar. A laboratory-built Ti:sapphire laser with a pulse repetition rate of 3 kHz and a pulse width of 100 ns is used as the pump source. The maximum laser pulse energy of 0.26 µJ at 780 nm is obtained under an absorbed pump pulse energy of 42 µJ at 755 nm in mixtures of Rb vapor and Ar at a temperature of 423 K, corresponding to an optical conversion efficiency of 0.62%. Further experiments show that the output laser at 780 nm can always be detected for pump wavelengths ranging from 754 to 759 nm, indicating that Rb-Ar mixtures can be effectively pumped by commercial laser diodes (LDs) with a bandwidth of 5 nm.

Pump beam waist-dependent pulse energy generation in Nd:YAG/Cr4+:YAG passively Q-switched microchip laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Chao-yu; Dong, Jun

2016-08-01

The incident pump beam waist-dependent pulse energy generation in Nd:YAG/Cr4+:YAG composite crystal passively Q-switched microchip laser has been investigated experimentally and theoretically by moving the Nd:YAG/Cr4+:YAG composite crystal along the pump beam direction. Highest pulse energy of 0.4 mJ has been generated when the Nd:YAG/Cr4+:YAG composite crystal is moved about 6 mm away from the focused pump beam waist. Laser pulses with pulse width of 1.7 ns and peak power of over 235 kW have been achieved. The theoretically calculated effective laser beam area at different positions of Nd:YAG/Cr4+:YAG composite crystal along the pump beam direction is in good agreement with the experimental results. The highest peak power can be generated by adjusting the pump beam waist incident on the Nd:YAG/Cr4+:YAG composite crystal to optimize the effective laser beam area in passively Q-switched microchip laser.

One joule per Q-switched pulse diode-pumped laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holder, Lonnie E.; Kennedy, Chandler; Long, Larry; Dube, George

1992-01-01

Q-switched 1-J output has been achieved from diode-pumped zig-zag Nd:YAG slabs in an oscillator-amplifier configuration. The oscillator was single transverse and longitudinal model. This laser set records for Q-switched energy per pulse, and for average power from a diode-pumped laser. The laser was constructed in a rugged configuration suitable for routine laboratory use.

High power tube solid-state laser with zigzag propagation of pump and laser beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Savich, Michael

2015-02-01

A novel resonator and pumping design with zigzag propagation of pumping and laser beams permits to design an improved tube Solid State Laser (SSL), solving the problem of short absorption path to produce a high power laser beam (100 - 1000kW). The novel design provides an amplifier module and laser oscillator. The tube-shaped SSL includes a gain element fiber-optically coupled to a pumping source. The fiber optic coupling facilitates light entry at compound Brewster's angle of incidence into the laser gain element and uses internal reflection to follow a "zigzag" path in a generally spiral direction along the length of the tube. Optics are arranged for zigzag propagation of the laser beam, while the cryogenic cooling system is traditional. The novel method of lasing uses advantages of cylindrical geometry to reach the high volume of gain medium with compactness and structural rigidity, attain high pump density and uniformity, and reach a low threshold without excessive increase of the temperature of the crystal. The design minimizes thermal lensing and stress effects, and provides high gain amplification, high power extraction from lasing medium, high pumping and lasing efficiency and a high beam quality.

Linearly Polarized Single-Frequency Oscillations of Laser-Diode-Pumped Microchip Ceramic Nd:YAG Lasers with Forced Ince-Gaussian Mode Operations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Otsuka, Kenju; Nemoto, Kana; Kamikariya, Koji; Miyasaka, Yoshihiko; Chu, Shu-Chun

2007-09-01

Detailed oscillation spectra and polarization properties have been examined in laser-diode-pumped (LD-pumped) microchip ceramic (i.e., polycrystalline) Nd:YAG lasers and the inherent segregation of lasing patterns into local modes possessing different polarization states was observed. Single-frequency linearly-polarized stable oscillations were realized by forcing the laser to Ince-Gaussian mode operations by adjusting azimuthal cavity symmetry.

Side-pumping combiner for high-power fiber laser based on tandem pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gu, Yanran; Lei, Chengmin; Liu, Jun; Li, Ruixian; Liu, Le; Xiao, Hu; Chen, Zilun

2017-11-01

We investigate a (2+1)×1 side-pumping combiner numerically and experimentally for high-power fiber laser based on tandem pumping for the first time. The influence of taper ratio and launch mode on the 1018-nm pump coupling efficiency and the leakage power into the coating of the signal fiber (LPC) is analyzed numerically. A side-pumping combiner is developed successfully by tapered-fused splicing technique based on the numerical analysis, consisting of two pump fibers (220/242 μm, NA=0.22) and a signal fiber (40/400 μm, NA=0.06/0.46). The total 1018-nm pump efficiency of the combiner is 98.1%, and the signal light insertion loss is <3%. The results show that, compared with laser diodes pumping, the combiner appears to have a better LPC performance and power handling capability when using 1018-nm fiber as the pump light. Meanwhile, an all-fiber MOPA laser based on tandem pumping with 1080-nm output of 2533 W and the slope efficiency of 82.8% is achieved based on the home-made combiner.

A fundamental mode Nd:GdVO4 laser pumped by a large aperture 808 nm VCSEL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, Y. Q.; Ma, J. L.; Yan, C. L.; Liu, G. J.; Ma, X. H.; Gong, J. F.; Feng, Y.; Wei, Z. P.; Wang, Y. X.; Zhao, Y. J.

2013-05-01

A fundamental mode Nd:GdVO4 laser pumped by a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) is experimentally demonstrated. The VCSEL has a circular output-beam which makes it easier for it to be directly coupled to a Nd:GdVO4 microcrystal. In our research, a large aperture 808 nm VCSEL, with a multi-ring-shaped aperture (MRSA) and an almost Gaussian-shaped far-field profile, is used as the pumping source. Experimental results for the Nd:GdVO4 laser pumped by the VCSEL are presented. The maximum output peak power of 0.754 W is obtained under a pump peak power of 1.3 W, and the corresponding opto-optic conversion efficiency is 58.1%. The average slope efficiency is 65.8% from the threshold pump power of 0.2 W to the pump power of 1.3 W. The laser beam quality factors are measured to be {M}x2=1.2 0 and {M}y2=1.1 5.

Feasibility of solar-pumped dye lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Ja H.; Kim, Kyung C.; Kim, Kyong H.

1987-01-01

Dye laser gains were measured at various pump-beam irradiances on a dye cell in order to evaluate the feasibility of solar pumping. Rhodamine 6G dye was considered as a candidate for the solar-pumped laser because of its high utilization of the solar spectrum and high quantum efficiency. Measurements show that a solar concentration of 20,000 is required to reach the threshold of the dye.

Continued advances in high brightness fiber-coupled laser modules for efficient pumping of fiber and solid-state lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hemenway, M.; Chen, Z.; Urbanek, W.; Dawson, D.; Bao, L.; Kanskar, M.; DeVito, M.; Martinsen, R.

2018-02-01

Both the fibber laser and diode-pumped solid-state laser market continue to drive advances in pump diode module brightness. We report on the continued progress by nLIGHT to develop and deliver the highest brightness diode-laser pumps using single-emitter technology. Continued advances in multimode laser diode technology [13] and fiber-coupling techniques have enabled higher emitter counts in the element packages, enabling us to demonstrate 305 W into 105 μm - 0.16 NA. This brightness improvement is achieved by leveraging our prior-reported package re-optimization, allowing an increase in the emitter count from two rows of nine emitters to two rows of twelve emitters. Leveraging the two rows off twelve emitter architecture,, product development has commenced on a 400 W into 200 μm - 00.16 NA package. Additionally, the advances in pump technology intended for CW Yb-doped fiber laser pumping has been leveraged to develop the highest brightness 793 nm pump modules for 2 μm Thulium fiber laser pumping, generating 150 W into 200 μm - 0.18 NA and 100 W into 105 μm - 0.15 NA. Lastly, renewed interest in direct diode materials processing led us to experiment with wavelength multiplexing our existing state of the art 200 W, 105 μm - 00.15 NA package into a combined output of 395 WW into 105 μm - 0.16 NA.

High power operation of cladding pumped holmium-doped silica fibre lasers.

PubMed

Hemming, Alexander; Bennetts, Shayne; Simakov, Nikita; Davidson, Alan; Haub, John; Carter, Adrian

2013-02-25

We report the highest power operation of a resonantly cladding-pumped, holmium-doped silica fibre laser. The cladding pumped all-glass fibre utilises a fluorine doped glass layer to provide low loss cladding guidance of the 1.95 µm pump radiation. The operation of both single mode and large-mode area fibre lasers was demonstrated, with up to 140 W of output power achieved. A slope efficiency of 59% versus launched pump power was demonstrated. The free running emission was measured to be 2.12-2.15 µm demonstrating the potential of this architecture to address the long wavelength operation of silica based fibre lasers with high efficiency.

A Q-switched Ho:YAG laser with double anti-misalignment corner cubes pumped by a diode-pumped Tm:YLF laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Y. P.; Dai, T. Y.; Wu, J.; Ju, Y. L.; Yao, B. Q.

2018-06-01

We report the acousto-optically Q-switched Ho:YAG laser with double anti-misalignment corner cubes pumped by a diode-pumped Tm:YLF laser. In the continuous-wave operation of Ho:YAG laser, the maximum s-polarized output power of 3.2 W at 2090.3 nm was obtained under the absorbed pump power of 12.9 W by rotating the fast axis of quarter-wave plate to change the output transmission of laser cavity. The corresponding optical-to-optical conversion efficiency was 24.8% and the slope efficiency was 55.7%. When one of the corner cubes was rotated to 11.8° around vertical direction or 6.7° around horizontal direction, the laser could still operate stably. For the Q-switched operation, the pulse energy of Ho:YAG laser was 9.9 mJ with a pulse width of 53 ns at the repetition rate of 100 Hz, resulting in a peak power of 186.8 kW. The beam quality factor M2 of Ho:YAG laser was 1.3.

Copper vapour laser with an efficient semiconductor pump generator having comparable pump pulse and output pulse durations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yurkin, A A

2016-03-31

We report the results of experimental studies of a copper vapour laser with a semiconductor pump generator capable of forming virtually optimal pump pulses with a current rise steepness of about 40 A ns{sup -1} in a KULON LT-1.5CU active element. To maintain the operating temperature of the active element's channel, an additional heating pulsed oscillator is used. High efficiency of the pump generator is demonstrated. (lasers)

2-Micron Laser Transmitter for Coherent CO2 DIAL Measurement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, Upendra N.; Bai, Yingxin; Yu, Jirong

2009-01-01

Carbon dioxide (CO2) has been recognized as one of the most important greenhouse gases. It is essential for the study of global warming to accurately measure the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere and continuously record its variation. A high repetition rate, highly efficient, Q-switched 2-micron laser system as the transmitter of a coherent differential absorption lidar for CO2 measurement has been developed in NASA Langley Research Center. This laser system is capable of making a vertical profiling of CO2 from ground and column measurement of CO2 from air and space-borne platform. The transmitter is a master-slave laser system. The master laser operates in a single frequency, either on-line or off-line of a selected CO2 absorption line. The slave laser is a Q-switched ring-cavity Ho:YLF laser which is pumped by a Tm:fiber laser. The repetition rate can be adjusted from a few hundred Hz to 10 kHz. The injection seeding success rate is from 99.4% to 99.95%. For 1 kHz operation, the output pulse energy is 5.5mJ with the pulse length of 50 ns. The optical-to-optical efficiency is 39% when the pump power is 14.5W. A Ho:YLF laser operating in the range of 2.05 micrometers can be tuned over several characteristic lines of CO2 absorption. Experimentally, a diode pumped Ho:Tm:YLF laser has been successfully used as the transmitter of coherent differential absorption lidar for the measurement of CO2 with a repetition rate of 5 Hz and pulse energy of 75 mJ. For coherent detection, high repetition rate is required for speckle averaging to obtain highly precise measurements. However, a diode pumped Ho:Tm:YLF laser can not operate in high repetition rate due to the large heat loading and up-conversion. A Tm:fiber laser pumped Ho:YLF laser with low heat loading can operate in high repetition rate. A theoretical model has been established to simulate the performance of Tm:fiber laser pumped Ho:YLF lasers. For continuous wave (CW) operation, high pump intensity with small beam size is suitable for high efficiency. For Q-switched operation, the optimal energy extraction relies on the pump intensity, pump volume, and pump duration which is inversely proportion to the repetition rate. CW and Q-switched Ho:YLF lasers with different linear cavity configurations have been designed and demonstrated for a 30 W Tm:fiber pump laser. The CW Ho laser slope efficiency and optical-to-optical efficiencies reach 65% and 55%, respectively. The pulsed laser efficiency depends on the repetition rate. For 1 kHz operation, the optical-to-optical efficiency is 39% when the pump power is 14.5W. Currently, the injection seeding success rate is between 99.4% and 99.95%. After a ten thousand pulses, the standard deviation of the laser frequency jitter is about 3 MHz. It meets the requirements of highly precise CO2 concentration measurement. In conclusion, an injection seeded, high repetition rate, Q-switched Ho:YLF laser has been developed for a coherent CO2 differential absorption lidar. This master-slave laser system has high optical-to-optical efficiency and seeding success rate. It can potentially meet the requirements of the coherent detection of CO2 concentration by a differential absorption lidar technique.

Vanadium-pumped titanium x-ray laser

DOEpatents

Nilsen, J.

1992-05-26

A resonantly photo-pumped x-ray laser is formed of a vanadium and titanium foil combination that is driven by two beams of intense line focused optical laser radiation. Ground state neon-like titanium ions are resonantly photo-pumped by line emission from fluorine-like vanadium ions. 4 figs.

Biological research by optically pumped far infrared lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhengyu, Mi

1989-05-01

The FIR breeding for paddy rice, black bean and wheat, the chlorophyll mutation of paddy rice induced by optically pumped FIR laser, etc., are presented. The results of SDS electrophoresis analysis of soluble proteins of Drosophita melanrgaster irradiated by optically pumped FIR laser are described and discussed.

Kilohertz Pulse Repetition Frequency Slab Ti:sapphire Lasers with High Average Power (10 W)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wadsworth, William J.; Coutts, David W.; Webb, Colin E.

1999-11-01

High-average-power broadband 780-nm slab Ti:sapphire lasers, pumped by a kilohertz pulse repetition frequency copper vapor laser (CVL), were demonstrated. These lasers are designed for damage-free power scaling when pumped by CVL s configured for maximum output power (of order 100 W) but with poor beam quality ( M 2 300 ). A simple Brewster-angled slab laser side pumped by a CVL produced 10-W average power (1.25-mJ pulses at 8 kHz) with 4.2-ns FWHM pulse duration at an absolute efficiency of 15% (68-W pump power). Thermal lensing in the Brewster slab laser resulted in multitransverse mode output, and pump absorption was limited to 72% by the maximum doping level for commercially available Ti:sapphire (0.25%). A slab laser with a multiply folded zigzag path was therefore designed and implemented that produced high-beam-quality (TEM 00 -mode) output when operated with cryogenic cooling and provided a longer absorption path for the pump. Excessive scattering of the Ti:sapphire beam at the crystal surfaces limited the efficiency of operation for the zigzag laser, but fluorescence diagnostic techniques, gain measurement, and modeling suggest that efficient power extraction ( 15 W TEM 00 , 23% efficiency) from this laser would be possible for crystals with an optical quality surface polish.

Solid-state laser pumping with a planar compound parabolic concentrator.

PubMed

Panteli, D V; Pani, B M; Beli, L Z

1997-10-20

A novel solid-state laser-pumping scheme is proposed that combines a reflective lamp chamber and a compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) as a light guide. The CPC is made of a transparent material of high refractive index, and light is guided by the total internal reflection, with drastically reduced reflection losses. Material is chosen so that the absorption losses are minimized in the pumping wavelength range. The lamp chamber is designed with the principles of nonimaging optics, which ensures that the radiation is efficiently transferred from the lamp to the input aperture of the CPC. The pumping efficiency was first estimated theoretically, which gave us enough justification for the more accurate calculations with ray tracing. Single as well as multiple pumping cavities are discussed. New pumping geometry results in significantly increased pumping efficiency compared with conventional geometries. Also the lamp and the laser rod are separated, leading to reduced thermal load. We found that the proposed pumping method is also applicable to diode-pumped lasers.

Diffractive Combiner of Single-Mode Pump Laser-Diode Beams

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Duncan; Wilson, Daniel; Qiu, Yueming; Forouhar, Siamak

2007-01-01

An optical beam combiner now under development would make it possible to use the outputs of multiple single-mode laser diodes to pump a neodymium: yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) nonplanar ring oscillator (NPRO) laser while ensuring that the laser operates at only a single desired frequency. Heretofore, an Nd:YAG NPRO like the present one has been pumped by a single multimode laser-diode beam delivered via an optical fiber. It would be desirable to use multiple pump laser diodes to increase reliability beyond that obtainable from a single pump laser diode. However, as explained below, simplistically coupling multiple multimode laser-diode beams through a fiber-optic combiner would entail a significant reduction in coupling efficiency, and lasing would occur at one or more other frequencies in addition to the single desired frequency. Figure 1 schematically illustrates the principle of operation of a laser-diode-pumped Nd:YAG NPRO. The laser beam path is confined in a Nd:YAG crystal by means of total internal reflections on the three back facets and a partial-reflection coating on the front facet. The wavelength of the pump beam - 808 nm - is the wavelength most strongly absorbed by the Nd:YAG crystal. The crystal can lase at a wavelength of either 1,064 nm or 1,319 nm - which one depending on the optical coating on the front facet. A thermal lens effect induced by the pump beam enables stable lasing in the lowest-order transverse electromagnetic mode (the TEM00 mode). The frequency of this laser is very stable because of the mechanical stability of the laser crystal and the unidirectional nature of the lasing. The unidirectionality is a result of the combined effects of (1) a Faraday rotation induced by an externally applied magnetic field and (2) polarization associated with non-normal incidence and reflection on the front facet.

Theoretical and experimental study on the Nd:YAG/BaWO4/KTP yellow laser generating 8.3 W output power.

PubMed

Cong, Zhenhua; Zhang, Xingyu; Wang, Qingpu; Liu, Zhaojun; Chen, Xiaohan; Fan, Shuzhen; Zhang, Xiaolei; Zhang, Huaijin; Tao, Xutang; Li, Shutao

2010-06-07

A diode-side-pumped actively Q-switched intracavity frequency-doubled Nd:YAG/BaWO(4)/KTP Raman laser is studied experimentally and theoretically. Rate equations are used to analyze the Q-switched yellow laser by considering the transversal distributions of the intracavity photon density and the inversion population density. An 8.3 W 590 nm laser is obtained with a 125.8 W 808 nm pump power and a 15 kHz pulse repetition frequency. The corresponding optical conversion efficiency from diode laser to yellow laser is 6.57%, much higher than that of the former reported side-pumped yellow laser. The output powers with respect to the incident pump power are in agreement with the theoretical results on the whole.

LD-pumped erbium and neodymium lasers with high energy and output beam quality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabanov, Vladimir V.; Bezyazychnaya, Tatiana V.; Bogdanovich, Maxim V.; Grigor'ev, Alexandr V.; Lebiadok, Yahor V.; Lepchenkov, Kirill V.; Ryabtsev, Andrew G.; Ryabtsev, Gennadii I.; Shchemelev, Maxim A.

2013-05-01

Physical and fabrication peculiarities which provide the high output energy and beam quality for the diode pumped erbium glass and Nd:YAG lasers are considered. Developed design approach allow to make passively Q-switched erbium glass eye-safe portable laser sources with output energy 8 - 12 mJ (output pulse duration is less than 25 ns, pulse repetition rate up to 5 Hz) and beam quality M2 less than 1.3. To reach these values the erbium laser pump unit parameters were optimized also. Namely, for the powerful laser diode arrays the optimal near-field fill-factor, output mirror reflectivity and heterostructure properties were determined. Construction of advanced diode and solid-state lasers as well as the optical properties of the active element and the pump unit make possible the lasing within a rather wide temperature interval (e.g. from minus forty till plus sixty Celsius degree) without application of water-based chillers. The transversally pumped Nd:YAG laser output beam uniformity was investigated depending on the active element (AE) pump conditions. In particular, to enhance the pump uniformity within AE volume, a special layer which practically doesn't absorb the pump radiation but effectively scatters the pump and lasing beams, was used. Application of such layer results in amplified spontaneous emission suppression and improvement of the laser output beam uniformity. The carried out investigations allow us to fabricate the solid-state Nd:YAG lasers (1064 nm) with the output energy up to 420 mJ at the pulse repetition rate up to 30 Hz and the output energy up to 100 mJ at the pulse repetition rate of of 100 Hz. Also the laser sources with following characteristics: 35 mJ, 30 Hz (266 nm); 60 mJ, 30 Hz (355 nm); 100 mJ, 30 Hz (532 nm) were manufactured on the base of the developed Nd:YAG quantrons.

Efficient single-mode operation of a cladding-pumped ytterbium-doped helical-core fiber laser.

PubMed

Wang, P; Cooper, L J; Sahu, J K; Clarkson, W A

2006-01-15

A novel approach to achieving robust single-spatial-mode operation of cladding-pumped fiber lasers with multimode cores is reported. The approach is based on the use of a fiber geometry in which the core has a helical trajectory within the inner cladding to suppress laser oscillation on higher-order modes. In a preliminary proof-of-principle study, efficient single-mode operation of a cladding-pumped ytterbium-doped helical-core fiber laser with a 30 microm diameter core and a numerical aperture of 0.087 has been demonstrated. The laser yielded 60.4 W of output at 1043 nm in a beam with M2 < 1.4 for 92.6 W launched pump power from a diode stack at 976 nm. The slope efficiency at pump powers well above threshold was approximately 84%, which compares favorably with the slope efficiencies achievable with conventional straight-core Yb-doped double-clad fiber lasers.

Improving Reliability of High Power Quasi-CW Laser Diode Arrays for Pumping Solid State Lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amzajerdian, Farzin; Meadows, Byron L.; Baker, Nathaniel R.; Barnes, Bruce W.; Baggott, Renee S.; Lockard, George E.; Singh, Upendra N.; Kavaya, Michael J.

2005-01-01

Most Lidar applications rely on moderate to high power solid state lasers to generate the required transmitted pulses. However, the reliability of solid state lasers, which can operate autonomously over long periods, is constrained by their laser diode pump arrays. Thermal cycling of the active regions is considered the primary reason for rapid degradation of the quasi-CW high power laser diode arrays, and the excessive temperature rise is the leading suspect in premature failure. The thermal issues of laser diode arrays are even more drastic for 2-micron solid state lasers which require considerably longer pump pulses compared to the more commonly used pump arrays for 1-micron lasers. This paper describes several advanced packaging techniques being employed for more efficient heat removal from the active regions of the laser diode bars. Experimental results for several high power laser diode array devices will be reported and their performance when operated at long pulsewidths of about 1msec will be described.

Design of ultrahigh brightness solar-pumped disk laser.

PubMed

Liang, Dawei; Almeida, Joana

2012-09-10

To significantly improve the solar-pumped laser beam brightness, a multi-Fresnel lens scheme is proposed for side-pumping either a single-crystal Nd:YAG or a core-doped ceramic Sm(3+) Nd:YAG disk. Optimum laser system parameters are found through ZEMAX and LASCAD numerical analysis. An ultrahigh laser beam figure of merit B of 53 W is numerically calculated, corresponding to a significant enhancement of more than 180 times over the previous record. 17.7 W/m(2) collection efficiency is also numerically attained. The strong thermal effects that have hampered present-day rod-type solar-pumped lasers can also be largely alleviated.

Cladding For Transversely-Pumped Laser Rod

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Byer, Robert L.; Fan, Tso Yee

1989-01-01

Combination of suitable dimensioning and cladding of neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet of similar solid-state laser provides for more efficient utilization of transversely-incident pump light from diode lasers. New design overcomes some of limitations of longitudinal- and older transverse-pumping concepts and promotes operation at higher output powers in TEM00 mode.

885-nm laser diode array pumped ceramic Nd:YAG master oscillator power amplifier system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Anthony W.; Li, Steven X.; Stephen, Mark A.; Seas, Antonios; Troupaki, Elisavet; Vasilyev, Aleksey; Conley, Heather; Filemyr, Tim; Kirchner, Cynthia; Rosanova, Alberto

2010-04-01

The objective of this effort is to develop more reliable, higher efficiency diode pumped Nd:YAG laser systems for space applications by leveraging technology investments from the DoD and other commercial industries. Our goal is to design, build, test and demonstrate the effectiveness of combining 885 nm laser pump diodes and the use of ceramic Nd:YAG for future flight missions. The significant reduction in thermal loading on the gain medium by the use of 885 nm pump lasers will improve system efficiency.

APPLICATIONS OF LASERS AND OTHER TOPICS IN QUANTUM ELECTRONICS: Laser system based on a commercial microwave oscillator with time compression of a microwave pump pulse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arteev, M. S.; Vaulin, V. A.; Slinko, V. N.; Chumerin, P. Yu; Yushkov, Yu G.

1992-06-01

An analysis is made of the possibility of using a commercial microsecond microwave oscillator, supplemented by a device for time compression of microwave pulses, in pumping of industrial lasers with a high efficiency of conversion of the pump source energy into laser radiation. The results are reported of preliminary experiments on the commissioning of an excimer XeCl laser.

Resonantly photo-pumped nickel-like erbium X-ray laser

DOEpatents

Nilsen, Joseph

1990-01-01

A resonantly photo-pumped X-ray laser (10) that enhances the gain of seve laser lines that also lase because of collisional excitations and recombination processes, is described. The laser comprises an aluminum (12) and erbium (14) foil combination (16) that is driven by two beams (18, 20) of intense line focused (22, 24) optical laser radiation. Ground state nickel-like erbium ions (34) are resonantly photo-pumped by line emission from hydrogen-like aluminum ions (32).

High efficiency, linearly polarized, directly diode-pumped Er:YAG laser at 1617  nm.

PubMed

Yu, Zhenzhen; Wang, Mingjian; Hou, Xia; Chen, Weibiao

2014-12-01

An efficient, directly diode-pumped Er:YAG laser at 1617 nm was demonstrated. A folding mirror with high reflectivity for the s-polarized light at the laser wavelength was used to achieve a linearly polarized laser. A maximum continuous-wave output power of 7.73 W was yielded under incident pump power of 50.57 W, and the optical conversion efficiency with respect to incident pump power was ∼15.28%, which was the highest optical conversion efficiency with directly diode-pumped Er:YAG lasers up to now; in Q-switched operation, the maximum pulse energy of 7.82 mJ was generated with pulse duration of about 80 ns at a pulse repetition frequency of 500 Hz.

Mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser oscillators pumped by wavelength-multiplexed laser diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugiyama, Naoto; Tanaka, Hiroki; Kannari, Fumihiko

2018-05-01

We directly pumped a Ti:sapphire laser by combining 478 and 520 nm laser diodes to prevent the effect of absorption loss induced by the pump laser of shorter wavelengths (∼450 nm). We obtain a continuous-wave output power of 660 mW at a total incident pump power of 3.15 W. We demonstrate mode locking using a semiconductor saturable absorber mirror, and 126 fs pulses were obtained at a repetition rate of 192 MHz. At the maximum pump power, the average output power is 315 mW. Shorter mode-locked pulses of 42 and 48 fs were respectively achieved by Kerr-lens mode locking with average output powers of 280 and 360 mW at a repetition rate of 117 MHz.

Diode-pumped continuous-wave Nd:Gd3Ga5O12 lasers at 1406, 1415 and 1423 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Haifeng; Zhu, Wenzhang; Xiong, Feibing; Ruan, Jianjian

2018-05-01

We report a diode-pumped continuous-wave Nd:Gd3Ga5O12 (GGG) laser operating at 1.4 μm spectral region. A dual-wavelength laser at 1423 and 1406 nm is achieved with output power of about 2.59 W at absorbed pump power of 13.4 W. Further increasing the pump power, simultaneous tri-wavelength laser at 1423, 1415 and 1406 nm is also obtained with a maximum output power of 3.96 W at absorbed pump power of 18.9 W. Single-wavelength lasing is also realized at the three emission lines using an intracavity etalon. The laser result is believed to be the highest output power achieved in Nd:GGG crystal, at present, to the best of our knowledge.

Progress on Raman laser for sodium resonance fluorescence lidar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Steven X.; Yu, Anthony W.; Krainak, Michael A.; Bai, Yingxin; Konoplev, Oleg; Fahey, Molly E.; Numata, Kenji

2018-02-01

We are developing a Q-switched narrow linewidth intra-cavity Raman laser for a space based sodium lidar application. A novel Raman laser injection seeding scheme is proposed and is experimentally verified. A Q-switched, diode pumped, c-cut Nd:YVO4 laser has been designed to emit a fundamental wavelength at 1066.6 nm. This fundamental wavelength is used as the pump in an intra-cavity Raman conversion in a Gd0.2Y0.8VO4 composite material. By tuning the temperature of the crystal, we tuned the Raman shifting to the desired sodium absorption line. A diode end pumped, T-shaped laser cavity has been built for experimental investigation. The fundamental pump laser cavity is a twisted mode cavity to eliminate the spatial hole burning for effective injection seeding. The Raman laser cavity is a linear standing wave cavity because Raman gain medium does not suffer spatial hole burning as traditional laser gain medium. The linewidth and temporal profile of the Raman laser is experimentally investigated with narrow and broadband fundamental pump emission. We have, for the first time, demonstrated an injection seeded, high peak power, narrow linewidth intra-cavity Raman laser for potential use in a sodium resonance fluorescence lidar.

Direct solar pumping of semiconductor lasers: A feasibility study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, Neal G.

1991-01-01

The primary goals of the feasibility study are the following: (1) to provide a preliminary assessment of the feasibility of pumping semiconductor lasers in space directly focused sunlight; and (2) to identify semiconductor laser structures expected to operate at the lowest possible focusing intensities. It should be emphasized that the structures under consideration would provide direct optical-to-optical conversion of sunlight into laser light in a single crystal, in contrast to a configuration consisting of a solar cell or battery electrically pumping a current injection laser. With external modulation, such lasers may prove to be efficient sources for intersatellite communications. We proposed to develop a theoretical model of semiconductor quantum-well lasers photopumped by a broadband source, test it against existing experimental data where possible, and apply it to estimating solar pumping requirements and identifying optimum structures for operation for operation at low pump intensities. This report outlines our progress toward these goals. Discussion of several technical details are left to the attached summary abstract.

Design and Construction of Simple, Nitrogen-Laser-Pumped, Tunable Dye Lasers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hilborn, Robert C.

1978-01-01

The basic physical principles of dye lasers are discussed and used to analyze the design and operation of tunable dye lasers pumped by pulsed nitrogen lasers. Details of the design and construction of these dye lasers are presented. Some simple demonstration experiments are described. (BB)

Power amplification for petawatt Ti: Sapphire lasers: New strategies for high fluence pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Canova, F.; Chambaret, J.-P.

2006-06-01

One of the major bottlenecks when we pump large Ti:Sapphire crystals, to reach Petawatt level laser amplification, is the careful control of the spatial energy distribution of Nd:Glass pump lasers. Commercially available nanosecond Nd:Glass and Nd:YAG lasers exhibit poor spatial profile quality especially in the near and in the intermediate field, which can lead to local hot spots, responsible of damages in crystals, and parasitic transverse lasing enhancement, strongly dependent on the profile of the pump beam . For these reasons, it is mandatory to keep the pump beam intensity profile as flat as possible on the pumped crystal. To guarantee the best pumping conditions we are investigating the combined use of DOE (diffractive optical elements) and optical smoothing techniques. In parallel we are starting a study on laser induced damages mechanisms in crystal. With DOE and microlens arrays we plan to guarantee to the beam a supergaussian shape. Simulation and first experiments with both optical systems show that a flat top spatial profile with less than 10% fluctuations and a 8th order supergaussian is possible with the present technology.Optical smoothing will keep the beam free of hot spots. We especially focused on the smoothing techniques involving optical fibers. This is the first time to our knowledge that this technique is applied to the pumping beams for Ti:Sapphire systems. A deep study of laser-crystal interaction will allow us to fully understand the damages created by hot spots. The knowledge of the phenomena involved in laser damages on Ti:Sapphire is mandatory to control the pumping processes and thresholds. In conclusion, mixing the advantages of these different approaches to overcome this bottleneck will allow us to amplify in a safety way femtosecond laser beams to the Petawatt level using Ti:Sapphire crystals.

[The design of all solid-state tunable pulsed Ti:sapphire laser system].

PubMed

Chen, Zhe; Ku, Geng; Wan, Junchao; Wang, Wei; Zhou, Chuanqing

2013-05-01

This paper presented a design of broadly all solid-state tunable pulsed Ti:sapphire laser with high power and stable performance. The laser was pumped by custom-made Nd:YAG laser which had water cooling system and amplified by two stage amplifier. The method accomplished tunable output of all solid-state tunable pulsed Ti:sapphire laser by modifying the reflection angle of the back mirror. We investigated the relationship between the power of the pumping laser and the all solid-state tunable pulsed Ti: sapphire laser by changing the power of the pumping source.

Near-Infrared Laser Pumped Intersubband THz Laser Gain in InGaAs-AlAsSb-InP Quantum Wells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, An-Sheng; Ning, Cun-Zheng

1999-01-01

We investigate the possibility of using InGaAs-AlAsSb-InP coupled quantum wells to generate THz radiation by means of intersubband optical pumping. We show that large conduction band offsets of these quantum wells make it possible to use conventional near-infrared diode lasers around 1.55 micron as pump sources. Taking into account the pump-probe coherent interaction and the optical nonlinearity for the pump field, we calculate the THz gain of the quantum well structure. We show that resonant Raman scattering enhances the THz gain at low and moderate optical pumping levels. When the pump intensity is strong, the THz gain is reduced by pump-induced population redistribution and pump-probe coherent interactions.

Multi-point laser ignition device

DOEpatents

McIntyre, Dustin L.; Woodruff, Steven D.

2017-01-17

A multi-point laser device comprising a plurality of optical pumping sources. Each optical pumping source is configured to create pumping excitation energy along a corresponding optical path directed through a high-reflectivity mirror and into substantially different locations within the laser media thereby producing atomic optical emissions at substantially different locations within the laser media and directed along a corresponding optical path of the optical pumping source. An output coupler and one or more output lenses are configured to produce a plurality of lasing events at substantially different times, locations or a combination thereof from the multiple atomic optical emissions produced at substantially different locations within the laser media. The laser media is a single continuous media, preferably grown on a single substrate.

Wavelength switchable high-power diode-side-pumped rod Tm:YAG Laser around 2µm.

PubMed

Wang, Caili; Du, Shifeng; Niu, Yanxiong; Wang, Zhichao; Zhang, Chao; Bian, Qi; Guo, Chuan; Xu, Jialin; Bo, Yong; Peng, Qinjun; Cui, Dafu; Zhang, Jingyuan; Lei, Wenqiang; Xu, Zuyan

2013-03-25

We report a high-power diode-side-pumped rod Tm:YAG laser operated at either 2.07 or 2.02 µm depending on the transmission of pumped output coupler. The laser yields 115W of continuous-wave output power at 2.07 µm with 5% output coupling, which is the highest output power for all solid-state 2.07 μm cw rod Tm:YAG laser reported so far. With an output coupler of 10% transmission, the center wavelength of the laser is switched to 2.02 μm with an output power of 77.1 W. This is the first observation of high-power wavelength switchable diode-side-pumped rod Tm:YAG laser around 2 µm.

Investigation on efficiency declines due to spectral overlap between LDAs pump and laser medium in high power double face pumped slab laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lang, Ye; Chen, Yanzhong; Liao, Lifen; Guo, Guangyan; He, Jianguo; Fan, Zhongwei

2018-03-01

In high power diode lasers, the input cooling water temperature would affect both output power and output spectrum. In double face pumped slab laser, the spectrum of two laser diode arrays (LDAs) must be optimized for efficiency reason. The spectrum mismatch of two LDAs would result in energy storing decline. In this work, thermal induced efficiency decline due to spectral overlap between high power LDAs and laser medium was investigated. A numerical model was developed to describe the energy storing variation with changing LDAs cooling water temperature and configuration (series/parallel connected). A confirmatory experiment was conducted using a double face pumped slab module. The experiment results show good agreements with simulations.

High-efficiency microchip laser with self-injection seeding.

PubMed

Wang, Sha; Wang, Yan-biao; Yang, Xian-heng; Feng, Guo-ying; Zhou, Shou-huan

2015-12-10

In this paper, we use a small bandwidth 808 nm cw Ti:sapphire laser as a pump source to pump a picosecond microchip laser. Different focal length pump focus lenses have been tested to improve laser efficiency. A maximum slope efficiency of around 20% is obtained by a 30 mm focal length lens. The pump threshold is only 13 mW. In order to reduce the timing jitter, we explored the self-injection seeding method by adding a seeding cavity to the microchip laser. A reduction factor in the timing jitter of up to a factor of 23 relative to the unseeded laser is obtained. From the experiments, we also found that higher seeding pulse energy will help to reduce the jitter more.

160mJ and 9ns electro-optics Q-switched conductively cooled 1047nm Nd:YLF laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Qi; Ma, Jian; Lu, Tingting; Ma, Xiuhua; Zhu, Xiaolei

2015-02-01

A compact diode side-pumped conductively cooled 1047 nm Nd:YLF slab laser with high energy and short pulse width is developed. Through ray tracing method, we design a home-made pump module to homogenize the pump intensity. Based on the Possion equation, a thermal conduct model of side-pump laser is established. The temperature distribution in laser crystal is obtained, and the thermal lens is caculated. With the absorbed pump energy of 818 mJ, the maximum output energy of 228 mJ is achieved in free-running mode. At a repetition rate of 50 Hz, 160 mJ, 9 ns 1047 nm infrared light is obtained under the maximum absorbed pump energy, and the slope efficiency is 27.8%.

Rectangular pulsed LD pumped saturable output coupler (SOC) Q-switched microchip laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yan-biao; Wang, Sha; Feng, Guo-ying; Zhou, Shou-huan

2017-02-01

We studied the cw LD and rectangular pulsed LD pumped saturable output coupler (SOC) passively Q-switched Nd:YVO4 transmission microchip laser experimentally. We demonstrated that the SOC passively Q-switched Nd:YVO4 transmission microchip laser pumped by a highly stabilized narrow bandwidth pulsed LD has a much lower timing jitter than pumped by a continuous wave (CW) LD, especially at low output frequency regime. By changing the pump beam size in the rectangular shape pulsed pump scheme, the output frequency can be achieved from 333.3 kHz to 71.4 kHz, while the relative timing jitter decreased from 0.09865% to 0.03115% accordingly. Additionally, the microchip laser has a good stability of output power, the power fluctuation below 2%.

Nd:GdVO4 ring laser pumped by laser diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, E. J.; Li, T.; Wang, Z. D.; Zhang, Y.

2013-02-01

The design and operation of a laser diode-pumped Nd:GdVO4 ring laser is described. A composite crystal (Nd:GdVO4/YVO4) with undoped ends is single-end pumped by a fiber-coupled laser diode (LD) at 808 nm. A four-mirror ring cavity is designed to keep the laser operating unidirectionally, which eliminates spatial hole burning in the standing-wave cavity. This laser can operate either as continuous wave (CW) or Q-switched. The single-frequency power obtained was 9.1 W at 1063 nm. Q-switched operation produced 0.23 mJ/pulse at 20 kHz in the fundamental laser.

ARPA solid state laser and nonlinear materials program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moulton, Peter F.

1994-06-01

The Research Division of Schwartz Electro-Optics, as part of the ARPA Solid State Laser and Nonlinear Materials Program, conducted a three-year study 'Erbium-Laser-Based Infrared Sources.' The aim of the study was to improve the understanding of semiconductor-laser-pumped, infrared (IR) solid state lasers based on the trivalent rare-earth ion erbium (Er) doped into a variety of host crystals. The initial program plan emphasized operation of erbium-doped materials on the 2.8-3.0 micrometers laser transition. Pulsed, Q-switched sources using that transition, when employed as a pump source for parametric oscillators, can provide tunable mid-IR energy. The dynamics of erbium lasers are more complex than conventional neodymium (Nd)-doped lasers and we intended to use pump-probe techniques to measure the level and temporal behavior of gain in various materials. To do so we constructed a number of different cw Er-doped lasers as probe sources and employed the Cr:LiSAF(LiSrAlF6) laser as a pulsed pump source that would simulate pulsed diode arrays. We identified the 970-nm wavelength pump band of Er as the most efficient and were able to make use of recently developed cw and pulsed InGaAs strained-quantum-well diode lasers in the effort. At the conclusion of the program we demonstrated the first pulsed diode bar pumping of the most promising materials for pulsed operation, the oxide garnets YSGG and GGG and the fluoride BaY2F8.

Electron beam pumped semiconductor laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hug, William F. (Inventor); Reid, Ray D. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

Electron-beam-pumped semiconductor ultra-violet optical sources (ESUVOSs) are disclosed that use ballistic electron pumped wide bandgap semiconductor materials. The sources may produce incoherent radiation and take the form of electron-beam-pumped light emitting triodes (ELETs). The sources may produce coherent radiation and take the form of electron-beam-pumped laser triodes (ELTs). The ELTs may take the form of electron-beam-pumped vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (EVCSEL) or edge emitting electron-beam-pumped lasers (EEELs). The semiconductor medium may take the form of an aluminum gallium nitride alloy that has a mole fraction of aluminum selected to give a desired emission wavelength, diamond, or diamond-like carbon (DLC). The sources may be produced from discrete components that are assembled after their individual formation or they may be produced using batch MEMS-type or semiconductor-type processing techniques to build them up in a whole or partial monolithic manner, or combination thereof.

Dysprosium-doped PbGa2S4 laser generating at 4.3 μm directly pumped by 1.7 μm laser diode.

PubMed

Jelínková, Helena; Doroshenko, Maxim E; Jelínek, Michal; Sulc, Jan; Osiko, Vyacheslav V; Badikov, Valerii V; Badikov, Dmitrii V

2013-08-15

In this Letter, we demonstrate the pulsed and CW operation of the Dy:PbGa(2)S(4) laser directly pumped by the 1.7 μm laser diode. In the pulsed regime (pulse duration 5 ms; repetition rate 20 Hz), the maximum mean output power of 9.5 mW was obtained with the slope efficiency of 9.3% with respect to the absorbed pump power. The generated wavelength was 4.32 μm, and the laser beam cross section was approximately Gaussian on both axes. Stable CW laser generation was also successfully obtained with the maximum output power of 67 mW and the slope efficiency of 8%. Depopulation of the lower laser level by 1.7 μm pump radiation absorption followed by 1.3 μm upconversion fluorescence was demonstrated. These results show the possibility of construction of the compact diode-pumped solid-state pulsed or CW laser generating at 4.3 μm in the power level of tens mW operating at room temperature.

Resonantly cladding-pumped Yb-free Er-doped LMA fiber laser with record high power and efficiency.

PubMed

Zhang, Jun; Fromzel, Viktor; Dubinskii, Mark

2011-03-14

We report the results of our power scaling experiments with resonantly cladding-pumped Er-doped eye-safe large mode area (LMA) fiber laser. While using commercial off-the-shelf LMA fiber we achieved over 88 W of continuous-wave (CW) single transverse mode power at ~1590 nm while pumping at 1532.5 nm. Maximum observed optical-to-optical efficiency was 69%. This result presents, to the best of our knowledge, the highest power reported from resonantly-pumped Yb-free Er-doped LMA fiber laser, as well as the highest efficiency ever reported for any cladding-pumped Er-doped laser, either Yb-co-doped or Yb-free.

Polarization methods for diode laser excitation of solid state lasers

DOEpatents

Holtom, Gary R.

2008-11-25

A mode-locked laser employs a coupled-polarization scheme for efficient longitudinal pumping by reshaped laser diode bars. One or more dielectric polarizers are configured to reflect a pumping wavelength having a first polarization and to reflect a lasing wavelength having a second polarization. A Yb-doped gain medium can be used that absorbs light having a first polarization and emits light having a second polarization. Using such pumping with laser cavity dispersion control, pulse durations of less than 100 fs can be achieved.

Overview and future direction for blackbody solar-pumped lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deyoung, R. J.

1988-01-01

A review of solar-pumped blackbody lasers is given which addresses their present status and suggests future research directions. The blackbody laser concept is one system proposed to scale to multimegawatt power levels for space-to-space power transmissions for such applications as onboard spacecraft electrical or propulsion needs. Among the critical technical issues are the scalability to high powers and the laser wavelength which impacts the transmission optics size as well as the laser-to-electric converter at the receiver. Because present blackbody solar-pumped lasers will have laser wavelengths longer than 4 microns, simple photovoltaic converters cannot be used, and transmission optics will be large. Thus, future blackbody laser systems should emphasize near visible laser wavelengths.

X-ray lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elton, Raymond C.

Theoretical and practical aspects of X-ray lasers are discussed in an introduction emphasizing recent advances. Chapters are devoted to the unique optical properties of the X-ray spectral region, the principles of short-wavelength lasers, pumping by exciting plasma ions, pumping by electron capture into excited ionic states, pumping by ionization of atoms and ions, and alternative approaches. The potential scientific, technical, biological, and medical applications of X-ray lasers are briefly characterized.

Laser Space Propulsion Overview (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

meet with currently fielded thruster technology. However, a laser-ablation propulsion engine using a set of diode-pumped glass fiber amplifiers with a...with Cm = 56µN/W and ηAB = 100%. These two units will be combined in a single device using low-mass diode-pumped glass fiber laser amplifiers to...advantage of extremely lightweight diode-pumped glass fiber lasers onboard the spacecraft to provide thrust with variable Isp and unmatched thrust

Analyses of mode filling factor of a laser end-pumped by a LD with high-order transverse modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Juhong; Wang, You; An, Guofei; Rong, Kepeng; Yu, Hang; Wang, Shunyan; Zhang, Wei; Cai, He; Xue, Liangping; Wang, Hongyuan; Zhou, Jie

2017-05-01

Although the concept of the mode filling factor (also named as "mode-matching efficiency") has been well discussed decades before, the concept of so-called overlap coefficient is often confused by the laser technicians because there are several different formulae for various engineering purposes. Furthermore, the LD-pumped configurations have become the mainstream of solid-state lasers since their compact size, high optical-to-optical efficiency, low heat generation, etc. As the beam quality of LDs are usually very unsatisfactory, it is necessary to investigate how the mode filling factor of a laser system is affected by a high-powered LD pump source. In this paper, theoretical analyses of an end-pumped laser are carried out based on the normalized overlap coefficient formalism. The study provides a convenient tool to describe the intrinsically complex issue of mode interaction corresponding to a laser and an end-pumped source. The mode filling factor has been studied for many cases in which the pump mode and the laser mode have been considered together in the calculation based on analyses of the rate equations. The results should be applied for analyses of any other types of lasers with the similar optical geometry.

All-Glass Fiber Amplifier Pumped by Ultra-High Brightness Pumps

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-15

coated triple-clad fibers, we are developing triple-clad Yb fiber with gold coating for improved thermal management. 2.1 Pump laser The two...amplifier results using gain fiber with metalized fiber coating . Keywords: Fiber laser , specialty fiber, pump laser , beam combining, fiber metal coating ... coating can exceed its long-term damage threshold. Such a concern obviously does not apply to a fiber with gold protective coating [14]. Thus in

CO.sub.2 optically pumped distributed feedback diode laser

DOEpatents

Rockwood, Stephen D.

1980-01-01

A diode laser optically pumped by a CO.sub.2 coherent source. Interference fringes generated by feeding the optical pumping beam against a second beam, periodically alter the reflectivity of the diode medium allowing frequency variation of the output signal by varying the impingent angle of the CO.sub.2 laser beams.

Vanadium-pumped titanium x-ray laser

DOEpatents

Nilsen, Joseph

1992-01-01

A resonantly photo-pumped x-ray laser (10) is formed of a vanadium (12) and titanium (14) foil combination (16) that is driven by two beams (18, 20) of intense line focused (22, 24) optical laser radiation. Ground state neon-like titanium ions (34) are resonantly photo-pumped by line emission from fluorine-like vanadium ions (32).

Numerical study on the selective excitation of Helmholtz-Gauss beams in end-pumped solid-state digital lasers with the control of the laser gain transverse position provided by off-axis end pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsai, Ko-Fan; Chu, Shu-Chun

2018-03-01

This study proposes a complete and unified method for selective excitation of any specified nearly nondiffracting Helmholtz-Gauss (HzG) beam in end-pumped solid-state digital lasers. Four types of the HzG beams: cosine-Gauss beams, Bessel-Gauss beams, Mathieu-Gauss beams, and, in particular, parabolic-Gauss beams are successfully demonstrated to be generated with the proposed methods. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, parabolic-Gauss beams have not yet been directly generated from any kind of laser system. The numerical results of this study show that one can successfully achieve any lasing HzG beams directly from the solid-state digital lasers with only added control of the laser gain transverse position provided by off-axis end pumping. This study also presents a practical digital laser set-up for easily manipulating off-axis pumping in order to achieve the control of the laser gain transverse gain position in digital lasers. The reported results in this study provide advancement of digital lasers in dynamically generating nondiffracting beams. The control of the digital laser cavity gain position creates the possibility of achieving real-time selection of more laser modes in digital lasers, and it is worth further investigation in the future.

Generation of high-order Hermite-Gaussian modes in end-pumped solid-state lasers for square vortex array laser beam generation.

PubMed

Chu, Shu-Chun; Chen, Yun-Ting; Tsai, Ko-Fan; Otsuka, Kenju

2012-03-26

This study reports the first systematic approach to the excitation of all high-order Hermite-Gaussian modes (HGMs) in end-pumped solid-state lasers. This study uses a metal-wire-inserted laser resonator accompanied with the "off axis pumping" approach. This study presents numerical analysis of the excitation of HGMs in end-pumped solid-state lasers and experimentally generated HGM patterns. This study also experimentally demonstrates the generation of an square vortex array laser beams by passing specific high-order HGMs (HGn,n + 1 or HGn + 1,n modes) through a Dove prism-embedded unbalanced Mach-Zehnder interferometer [Optics Express 16, 19934-19949]. The resulting square vortex array laser beams with embedded vortexes aligned in a square array can be applied to multi-spot dark optical traps in the future.

Robust modeling and performance analysis of high-power diode side-pumped solid-state laser systems.

PubMed

Kashef, Tamer; Ghoniemy, Samy; Mokhtar, Ayman

2015-12-20

In this paper, we present an enhanced high-power extrinsic diode side-pumped solid-state laser (DPSSL) model to accurately predict the dynamic operations and pump distribution under different practical conditions. We introduce a new implementation technique for the proposed model that provides a compelling incentive for the performance assessment and enhancement of high-power diode side-pumped Nd:YAG lasers using cooperative agents and by relying on the MATLAB, GLAD, and Zemax ray tracing software packages. A large-signal laser model that includes thermal effects and a modified laser gain formulation and incorporates the geometrical pump distribution for three radially arranged arrays of laser diodes is presented. The design of a customized prototype diode side-pumped high-power laser head fabricated for the purpose of testing is discussed. A detailed comparative experimental and simulation study of the dynamic operation and the beam characteristics that are used to verify the accuracy of the proposed model for analyzing the performance of high-power DPSSLs under different conditions are discussed. The simulated and measured results of power, pump distribution, beam shape, and slope efficiency are shown under different conditions and for a specific case, where the targeted output power is 140 W, while the input pumping power is 400 W. The 95% output coupler reflectivity showed good agreement with the slope efficiency, which is approximately 35%; this assures the robustness of the proposed model to accurately predict the design parameters of practical, high-power DPSSLs.

264 W output power at 1585 nm in Er-Yb codoped fiber laser using in-band pumping.

PubMed

Jebali, M A; Maran, J-N; LaRochelle, S

2014-07-01

We demonstrate a high-power cladding-pumped Er-Yb codoped fiber laser with 74% efficiency. A pump-limited output power of 264 W is obtained using in-band pumping at 1535 nm. We compare the efficiency of 1480 and 1535 nm pumping through numerical simulations and experimental measurements.

AlGaAs diode pumped tunable chromium lasers

DOEpatents

Krupke, William F.; Payne, Stephen A.

1992-01-01

An all-solid-state laser system is disclosed wherein the laser is pumped in the longwave wing of the pump absorption band. By utilizing a laser material that will accept unusually high dopant concentrations without deleterious effects on the crystal lattice one is able to compensate for the decreased cross section in the wing of the absorption band, and the number of pump sources which can be used with such a material increases correspondingly. In a particular embodiment a chromium doped colquiriite-structure crystal such as Cr:LiSrAlF.sub.6 is the laser material. The invention avoids the problems associated with using AlGaInP diodes by doping the Cr:LiSrAlF.sub.6 heavily to enable efficient pumping in the longwave wing of the absorption band with more practical AlGaAs diodes.

Tunable femtosecond lasers with low pump thresholds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oppo, Karen

The work in this thesis is concerned with the development of tunable, femtosecond laser systems, exhibiting low pump threshold powers. The main motive for this work was the development of a low threshold, self-modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser in order to replace the conventional large-frame argon-ion pump laser with a more compact and efficient all-solid-state alternative. Results are also presented for an all-solid-state, self-modelocked Cr:LiSAF laser, however most of this work is concerned with self-modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser systems. In chapter 2, the operation of a regeneratively-initiated, and a hard-aperture self- modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser, pumped by an argon-ion laser, is discussed. Continuous- wave oscillation thresholds as low as 160mW have been demonstrated, along with self-modelocked threshold powers as low as 500mW. The measurement and suppression of phase noise on modelocked lasers is discussed in chapter 3. This is followed by a comparison of the phase noise characteristics of the regeneratively-initiated, and hard-aperture self-modelocked Ti:Al2O3 lasers. The use of a synchronously-operating, high resolution electron-optical streak camera in the evaluation of timing jitter is also presented. In chapter 4, the construction and self-modelocked operation of an all-solid-state Ti:Al2O3 laser is described. The all-solid-state alternative to the conventional argon-ion pump laser was a continuous-wave, intracavity-frequency doubled, diode-laser pumped Nd:YLF ring laser. At a total diode-laser pump power of 10W, this minilaser was capable of producing a single frequency output of 1W, at 523.5nm in a TEM00 beam. The remainder of this thesis looks at the operation of a self-modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser generating ultrashort pulses at wavelengths as long as 1053nm. The motive for this work was the development of an all-solid-state, self- modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser operating at 1053nm, for use as a master oscillator in a Nd:glass power chain.

Investigation of 100 mJ all solid state end-pumped 1064 nm Q-switched laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Shiyong; Wang, Caili; Liu, Hui; Bo, Yong; Xu, Zuyan

2017-11-01

High energy 1064 nm Q-switched laser output is obtained by LD vertical array end pumping Nd:YAG. Cylindrical lens are used for beam shaping of LD array for different divergence angle of fast and slow axis. Based on the theoretical simulation of fundamental mode radius using ABCD transfer matrix, the resonant cavity is optimized and curvature radius of cavity mirrors is determined. The intracavity power density is calculated according to the output laser pulse energy and transmittance of output coupling mirror is optimized under the condition that optical device is not damaged. 1064 nm laser with a maximum output of 110 mJ is generated under LD pump energy of 600 mJ, corresponding to optical conversion efficiency of 18.3%. The laser pulse width is 11 ns and divergence angle is 1.2 mrad. For saturation phenomenon of Q-switched laser output, LD temperature is adjusted to make wavelength deviate from absorption peak of Nd:YAG crystal. The parasitic oscillation, which affects the enhancement of Q-switched laser energy, can be effectively suppressed by reducing gain of pump end of laser medium, which provides an effective technical means for obtaining high energy end-pumped Q-switched laser.

Comparative study of high power Tm:YLF and Tm:LLF slab lasers in continuous wave regime.

PubMed

Berrou, Antoine; Collett, Oliver J P; Morris, Daniel; Esser, M J Daniel

2018-04-16

We report on Tm:YLF and Tm:LLF slab lasers (1.5 x 11 x 20 mm 3 ) end pumped from one end with a high-brightness 792 nm laser diode stack. These two lasers are compared under identical pump conditions in continuous-wave regime. A stronger negative thermal lens in Tm:LLF than in Tm:YLF is highlighted, making it more difficult to operate the Tm:LLF laser under stable lasing conditions. In a configuration where the high reflectivity cavity mirror has a radius of curvature of r = 150 mm, the Tm:YLF (Tm:LLF) laser produces a maximum output power of 150 W (143 W) for 428 W of incident pump power (respectively). For a second cavity configuration where the high reflectivity cavity mirror has a radius of curvature of r = 500 mm, the Tm:YLF laser produces a maximum output power of 164 W for 412 W of incident pump power and a 57% slope efficiency with respect to the absorbed pump power. The emitted wavelength of these two lasers are measured as a function of the output coupler reflectivity and it shows that Tm:LLF laser emits at a longer wavelength than Tm:YLF.

High power diode and solid state lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eichler, H. J.; Fritsche, H.; Lux, O.; Strohmaier, S. G.

2017-01-01

Diode lasers are now basic pump sources of crystal, glass fiber and other solid state lasers. Progress in the performance of all these lasers is related. Examples of recently developed diode pumped lasers and Raman frequency converters are described for applications in materials processing, Lidar and medical surgery.

NaK 22Σ+ → 11Σ+ band optically pumped laser near 1.02 μm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, B. K.; Luh, W. T.; Huennekens, J.

1989-08-01

Optically pumped laser emission has been observed on the NaK 2( A)1Σ+ → 1( X)1Σ+ electronic state transition. The emission occurs between 1.015 and 1.035 μm when a sodium-potassium heat-pipe oven is pumped with 695 745 nm pulsed dye laser radiation. The laser emission occurs on many ro-vibrational transitions without the use of cavity mirrors. However, the addition of a simple cavity increases both the number of observed lasing transitions and the amplitude of the emission on each line. We report our results for the dependence of the emission intensity on pump laser power, oven temperature, and buffer gas pressure.

Carrier envelope offset frequency detection and stabilization of a diode-pumped mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser.

PubMed

Gürel, Kutan; Wittwer, Valentin J; Hakobyan, Sargis; Schilt, Stéphane; Südmeyer, Thomas

2017-03-15

We demonstrate the first diode-pumped Ti:sapphire laser frequency comb. It is pumped by two green laser diodes with a total pump power of 3 W. The Ti:sapphire laser generates 250 mW of average output power in 61-fs pulses at a repetition rate of 216 MHz. We generated an octave-spanning supercontinuum spectrum in a photonic-crystal fiber and detected the carrier envelope offset (CEO) frequency in a standard f-to-2f interferometer setup. We stabilized the CEO-frequency through direct current modulation of one of the green pump diodes with a feedback bandwidth of 55 kHz limited by the pump diode driver used in this experiment. We achieved a reduction of the CEO phase noise power spectral density by 140 dB at 1 Hz offset frequency. An advantage of diode pumping is the ability for high-bandwidth modulation of the pump power via direct current modulation. After this experiment, we studied the modulation capabilities and noise properties of green pump laser diodes with improved driver electronics. The current-to-output-power modulation transfer function shows a bandwidth larger than 1 MHz, which should be sufficient to fully exploit the modulation bandwidth of the Ti:sapphire gain for CEO stabilization in future experiments.

Frequency stabilization of diode-laser-pumped solid state lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Byer, Robert L.

1988-01-01

The goal of the NASA Sunlite program is to fly two diode-laser-pumped solid-state lasers on the space shuttle and while doing so to perform a measurement of their frequency stability and temporal coherence. These measurements will be made by combining the outputs of the two lasers on an optical radiation detector and spectrally analyzing the beat note. Diode-laser-pumped solid-state lasers have several characteristics that will make them useful in space borne experiments. First, this laser has high electrical efficiency. Second, it is of a technology that enables scaling to higher powers in the future. Third, the laser can be made extremely reliable, which is crucial for many space based applications. Fourth, they are frequency and amplitude stable and have high temporal coherence. Diode-laser-pumped solid-state lasers are inherently efficient. Recent results have shown 59 percent slope efficiency for a diode-laser-pumped solid-state laser. As for reliability, the laser proposed should be capable of continuous operation. This is possible because the diode lasers can be remote from the solid state gain medium by coupling through optical fibers. Diode lasers are constructed with optical detectors for monitoring their output power built into their mounting case. A computer can actively monitor the output of each diode laser. If it sees any variation in the output power that might indicate a problem, the computer can turn off that diode laser and turn on a backup diode laser. As for stability requirements, it is now generally believed that any laser can be stabilized if the laser has a frequency actuator capable of tuning the laser frequency as far as it is likely to drift in a measurement time.

VCSEL end-pumped passively Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with adjustable pulse energy.

PubMed

Goldberg, Lew; McIntosh, Chris; Cole, Brian

2011-02-28

A compact, passively Q-switched Nd:YAG laser utilizing a Cr4+:YAG saturable absorber, is end-pumped by the focused emission from an 804 nm vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) array. By changing the VCSEL operating current, we demonstrated 2x adjustability in the laser output pulse energy, from 9 mJ to 18 mJ. This energy variation was attributed to changes in the angular distribution of VCSEL emission with drive current, resulting in a change in the pump intensity distribution generated by a pump-light-focusing lens.

KrF laser pumping by electron beam discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonnet, J.; Fournier, G.; Pigache, D.

1981-09-01

The pumping of excimer lasers used in nuclear fusion and isotope separation is considered. Homogeneous ionization with an electron beam permitted discharge pumping of a KrF laser with a discharge-energy/beam-energy ratio 5. This high value is obtained to the detriment of an energy density and an efficiency which are about half the best values obtained under other conditions. This result does not modify a recent conclusion indicating that an electron beam controlled discharge has no significant advantage over a pure electron beam as regards pumping high energy KrF lasers at high repetition rate.

Organization of the Topical Meeting on Tunable Solid State Lasers Held in North Falmouth, Massachusetts on 1-3 May 1989

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-08-30

nm to produce blue light at 455 nm (Figure 1). A 20 Hz doubled Nd:YAG pump laser emitting up to 150 mJ at 532 nm 147 WA4-2 was used to resonantly...pumped by a diode laser, then in addition to the processes of Fig. 1, excited state absorption of the pump light from both 4I13,/z and 4I3112 may be...are visible and UV systems pumped at wavelengths that are available from semiconductor diode lasers and infrared emitting systems having high slope

A stable submillimeter laser local oscillator for heterodyne radiometry and spectroscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koepf, G. A.; Fetterman, H. R.; Mcavoy, N.

1980-01-01

A submillimeter laser with off-axis pump beam injection is described. This design concept achieves complete isolation of the pump laser with respect to the pump radiation reflected from the submillimeter resonator. Active line independent stabilization of the pump laser is obtained by the use of an external tunable etalon as a frequency reference. The submillimeter output power is constant to within 4% over periods of hours. Mean frequency drifts of less than 2 parts in 100 million per minute were measured by mixing with very high harmonics of an X-band synthesizer in a planar Schottky diode.

Microchip laser based on Yb:YAG/V:YAG monolith crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nejezchleb, Karel; Šulc, Jan; Jelínková, Helena; Škoda, Václav

2016-03-01

V:YAG crystal was investigated as a passive Q-switch of longitudinally diode-pumped microchip laser, emitting radiation at wavelength 1030.5 nm. This laser was based on diffusion bonded monolith crystal (diameter 3 mm) which combines in one piece an active laser part (Yb:YAG crystal, 10 at.% Yb/Y, 3 mm long) and saturable absorber (V:YAG crystal, 2 mm long, initial transmission 86 % @ 1031 nm). The microchip resonator consisted of dielectric mirrors directly deposited on the monolith surfaces (pump mirror HT @ 968 nm and HR @ 1031 nm on Yb:YAG part, output coupler with reflection 55 % @ 1031 nm on the V:YAG part). For longitudinal CW pumping of Yb:YAG part, a fibre coupled (core diameter 100 μm, NA = 0.22, emission @ 968 nm) laser diode was used. The laser threshold was 3.8W. The laser slope efficiency for output mean in respect to incident pumping was 16 %. The linearly polarized generated transversal intensity beam profile was close to the fundamental Gaussian mode. The generated pulse length, stable and mostly independent on pumping power, was equal to 1.3 ns (FWHM). The single pulse energy was increasing with the pumping power and for the maximum pumping 9.7W it was 78 μJ which corresponds to the pulse peak-power 56 kW. The maximum Yb:YAG/V:YAG microchip laser mean output power of 1W was reached without observable thermal roll-over. The corresponding Q-switched pulses repetition rate was 13.1 kHz.

Ring-Down Spectroscopy for Characterizing a CW Raman Laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matsko, Andrey; Savchenkov, Anatoliy; Maleki, Lute

2007-01-01

.A relatively simple technique for characterizing an all-resonant intracavity continuous-wave (CW) solid-state Raman laser involves the use of ring-down spectroscopy. As used here, characterizing signifies determining such parameters as threshold pump power, Raman gain, conversion efficiency, and quality factors (Q values) of the pump and Stokes cavity modes. Heretofore, in order to characterize resonant-cavity-based Raman lasers, it has usually been necessary to manipulate the frequencies and power levels of pump lasers and, in each case, to take several sets of measurements. In cases involving ultra-high-Q resonators, it also has been desirable to lock pump lasers to resonator modes to ensure the quality of measurement data. Simpler techniques could be useful. In the present ring-down spectroscopic technique, one infers the parameters of interest from the decay of the laser out of its steady state. This technique does not require changing the power or frequency of the pump laser or locking the pump laser to the resonator mode. The technique is based on a theoretical analysis of what happens when the pump laser is abruptly switched off after the Raman generation reaches the steady state. The analysis starts with differential equations for the evolution of the amplitudes of the pump and Stokes electric fields, leading to solutions for the power levels of the pump and Stokes fields as functions of time and of the aforementioned parameters. Among other things, these solutions show how the ring-down time depends, to some extent, on the electromagnetic energy accumulated in the cavity. The solutions are readily converted to relatively simple equations for the parameters as functions of quantities that can be determined from measurements of the time-dependent power levels. For example, the steady-state intracavity conversion efficiency is given by G1/G2 1 and the threshold power is given by Pin(G2/G1)2, where Pin is the steady-state input pump power immediately prior to abrupt switch-off, G1 is the initial rate of decay of the pump field, and G2 is the final rate of decay of the pump field. Hence, it is possible to determine all the parameters from a single ring-down scan, provided that the measurements taken in that scan are sufficiently accurate and complete.

High efficiency and good beam quality of electro-optic, cavity-dumped and double-end pumped Nd:YLF laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, X. X.; Fan, Z. W.; Qiu, J. S.; Lian, F. Q.; Zhang, X. L.

2012-06-01

In this paper, we describe a Nd:YLF laser based on high-speed RTP electro-optical cavity dumping technique. Two home-made 150 W fiber pump modules are used from both sides to pump Nd:YLF crystal. Coupling systems are the key elements in end-pumped solid-state lasers, the aberrations of which greatly affect the efficiency of the lasers. In order to get high efficient and good quality laser output, the optical software ZEMAX is used to design a four-piece coupling system. When the pumped energy is 32 mJ at the repetition rate of 1 Hz, the output energy is 6.5 mJ with 2.5 ns pulse width. When the pumped energy is 13.1 W at the repetition rate of 200 Hz, the output energy is 2.2 W with small M 2 factor where M {/x 2} is 1.04, and M {/y 2} is 1.05, and the light-light conversion efficiency is up to 16.8%.

High Energy, Single-Mode, All-Solid-State and Tunable UV Laser Transmitter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prasad, Narasimha S.; Singh, Upendra N.; Hovis, FLoyd

2007-01-01

A high energy, single mode, all solid-state Nd:YAG laser primarily for pumping an UV converter is developed. Greater than 1 J/pulse at 50 HZ PRF and pulse widths around 22 ns have been demonstrated. Higher energy, greater efficiency may be possible. Refinements are known and practical to implement. Technology Demonstration of a highly efficient, high-pulse-energy, single mode UV wavelength generation using flash lamp pumped laser has been achieved. Greater than 90% pump depletion is observed. 190 mJ extra-cavity SFG; IR to UV efficiency > 21% (> 27% for 1 mJ seed). 160 mJ intra-cavity SFG; IR to UV efficiency up to 24% Fluence < 1 J/sq cm for most beams. The pump beam quality of the Nd:YAG pump laser is being refined to match or exceed the above UV converter results. Currently the Nd:YAG pump laser development is a technology demonstration. System can be engineered for compact packaging.

Pump absorption in coiled and twisted double-clad hexagonal fiber: effect of launching conditions and core location

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dalidet, Romain; Peterka, Pavel; Doya, Valérie; Aubrecht, Jan; Koška, Pavel

2018-02-01

Ever extending applications of fiber lasers require energy efficient, high-power, small footprint and reliable fiber lasers and laser wavelength versatility. To meet these demands, next generation of active fibers for high-power fiber lasers is coming out that will eventually offer tailored spectroscopic properties, high robustness and reduced cooling requirements and improved efficiency through tailored pump absorption. We report on numerical modelling of the efficiency of the pump absorption in double clad active fibers with hexagonal shape of the inner cladding cross section and rare-earth-doped core. We analyze both the effect of different radii of the spool on which the fiber is coiled and different fiber twisting rates. Two different launching conditions were investigated: the Gaussian input pump beam and a speckle pattern that mimics the output of the pump laser diode pigtail. We have found that by asymmetric position of the rare-earth-doped core we can significantly improve the pump absorption.

2.4 μm diode-pumped Dy2+:CaF2 laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Švejkar, Richard; Papashvili, Alexander G.; Šulc, Jan; Němec, Michal; Jelínková, Helena; Doroshenko, Maxim E.; Batygov, Sergei H.; Osiko, Vyacheslav V.

2018-01-01

In this work, a cryogenic cooled, longitudinal diode-pumped Dy2+ :CaF2 laser was investigated for the first time. The temperature dependence of the spectroscopy and the laser properties of Dy2+ :CaF2 are presented. The tested Dy2+ :CaF2 crystal was a longitudinal pump in a near-IR region (926 nm) by laser diode radiation. The maximal mean output power and slope efficiency at 78 K during the pulse regime of the laser were 57.5 mW and 7%, respectively. Furthermore, the CW regime was successfully tested and a maximum output power of 0.37 W was obtained for the absorbed pumping power 5.7 W. The emission laser wavelength was 2367 nm.

Optimized Biasing of Pump Laser Diodes in a Highly Reliable Metrology Source for Long-Duration Space Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poberezhskiy, Ilya; Chang, Daniel; Erlig, Hernan

2011-01-01

Non Planar Ring Oscillator (NPRO) lasers are highly attractive for metrology applications. NPRO reliability for prolonged space missions is limited by reliability of 808 nm pump diodes. Combined laser farm aging parameter allows comparing different bias approaches. Monte-Carlo software developed to calculate the reliability of laser pump architecture, perform parameter sensitivity studies To meet stringent Space Interferometry Mission (SIM) Lite lifetime reliability / output power requirements, we developed a single-mode Laser Pump Module architecture that: (1) provides 2 W of power at 808 nm with >99.7% reliability for 5.5 years (2) consists of 37 de-rated diode lasers operating at -5C, with outputs combined in a very low loss 37x1 all-fiber coupler

Research on solar pumped liquid lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cox, J. D.; Kurzweg, U. H.; Weinstein, N. H.; Schneider, R. T.

1985-01-01

A solar pumped liquid laser that can be scaled up to high power (10 mW CW) for space applications was developed. Liquid lasers have the advantage over gases in that they provide much higher lasant densities and thus high-power densities. Liquids also have advantages over solids in that they have much higher damage thresholds and are much cheaper to produce for large scale applications. Among the liquid laser media that are potential candidates for solar pumping, the POC13: Nd sup 3+:ZrC14 liquid was chosen for its high intrinsic efficiency and its relatively good stability against decomposition due to protic contamination. The development of a manufacturing procedure and performance testing of the laser, liquid and the development of an inexpensive large solar concentrator to pump the laser are examined.

Transient enhancement of magnetization damping in CoFeB film via pulsed laser excitation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Bo; Ruan, Xuezhong, E-mail: xzruan@nju.edu.cn, E-mail: ybxu@nju.edu.cn; Wu, Zhenyao

2016-07-25

Laser-induced spin dynamics of in-plane magnetized CoFeB films has been studied by using time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect measurements. While the effective demagnetization field shows little dependence on the pump laser fluence, the intrinsic damping constant has been found to be increased from 0.008 to 0.076 with the increase in the pump fluence from 2 mJ/cm{sup 2} to 20 mJ/cm{sup 2}. This sharp enhancement has been shown to be transient and ascribed to the heating effect induced by the pump laser excitation, as the damping constant is almost unchanged when the pump-probe measurements are performed at a fixed pump fluence ofmore » 5 mJ/cm{sup 2} after irradiation by high power pump pulses.« less

Comparative study of DPAL and XPAL systems and selection principal of parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Wei; Tan, Rongqing; Li, Zhiyong; Han, Gaoce; Li, Hui

2016-10-01

A theoretical model based on common pump structure is proposed to analyze the laser output characteristics of DPAL (Diode pumped alkali vapor laser) and XPAL (Exciplex pumped alkali laser) in this paper. The model predicts that an optical-to-optical efficiency approaching 80% can be achieved for continuous-wave four- and five-XPAL systems with broadband pumping which is several times of pumped linewidth for DPAL. Operation parameters including pumped intensity, temperature, cell' s length, mixed gas concentration, pumped linewidth and output mirror reflectivity are analyzed for DPAL and XPAL systems basing on the kinetic model. The result shows a better performance in Cs-Ar XPAL laser with requirements of relatively high Ar concentration, high pumped intensity and high temperature. Comparatively, for Cs-DPAL laser, lower temperature and lower pumped intensity should be acquired. In addition, the predictions of selection principal of temperature and cell's length are also presented. The conception of the equivalent "alkali areal density" is proposed in this paper. It is defined as the product of the alkali density and cell's length. The result shows that the output characteristics of DPAL (or XPAL) system with the same alkali areal density but different temperatures turn out to be equal. It is the areal density that reflects the potential of DPAL or XPAL systems directly. A more detailed analysis of similar influences of cavity parameters with the same areal density is also presented. The detailed results of continuous-wave DPAL and XPAL performances as a function of pumped laser linewidth and mixed gas pressure are presented along with an analysis of influences of output coupler.

Solid state laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rines, Glen A. (Inventor); Moulton, Peter F. (Inventor); Harrison, James (Inventor)

1993-01-01

A wavelength-tunable, injection-seeded, dispersion-compensated, dispersively-pumped solid state laser includes a lasing medium; a highly reflective mirror; an output coupler; at least one isosceles Brewster prism oriented to the minimum deviation angle between the medium and the mirror for directing light of different wavelengths along different paths; means for varying the angle of the highly reflective mirror relative to the light from at least one Brewster angle for selecting a predetermined laser operating wavelength; a dispersion compensation apparatus associated with the lasing medium; a laser injection seeding port disposed between the dispersion compensation apparatus and one of the mirror and coupler and including a reflective surface at an acute non-Brewster angle to the laser beam for introducing a seed input; a dispersion compensation apparatus associated with the laser medium including opposite chirality optical elements; the lasing medium including a pump surface disposed at an acute angle to the laser beam to define a discrete path for the pumping laser beam separate from the pumped laser beam.

Nonimaging concentrators for diode-pumped slab lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lacovara, Philip; Gleckman, Philip L.; Holman, Robert L.; Winston, Roland

1991-10-01

Diode-pumped slab lasers require concentrators for high-average power operation. We detail the properties of diode lasers and slab lasers which set the concentration requirements and the concentrator design methodologies that are used, and describe some concentrator designs used in high-average power slab lasers at Lincoln Laboratory.

High Energy 2-Micron Laser Developments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yu, Jirong; Trieu, Bo C.; Petros, Mulugeta; Bai, Yingxin; Petzar, Paul J.; Koch, Grady J.; Singh, Upendra N.; Kavaya, Michael J.

2007-01-01

A master oscillator power amplifier, high energy Q-switched 2-micron laser system has been recently demonstrated. The laser and amplifiers are all designed in side-pumped rod configuration, pumped by back-cooled conductive packaged GaAlAs diode laser arrays. This 2-micron laser system provides nearly transform limited beam quality.

Laser demonstration and performance characterization of optically pumped Alkali Laser systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulham, Clifford V.

Diode Pumped Alkali Lasers (DPALs) offer a promising approach for high power lasers in military applications that will not suffer from the long logistical trails of chemical lasers or the thermal management issues of diode pumped solid state lasers. This research focuses on characterizing a DPAL-type system to gain a better understanding of using this type of laser as a directed energy weapon. A rubidium laser operating at 795 nm is optically pumped by a pulsed titanium sapphire laser to investigate the dynamics of DPALs at pump intensities between 1.3 and 45 kW/cm2. Linear scaling as high as 32 times threshold is observed, with no evidence of second order kinetics. Comparison of laser characteristics with a quasi-two level analytic model suggests performance near the ideal steady-state limit, disregarding the mode mis-match. Additionally, the peak power scales linearly as high as 1 kW, suggesting aperture scaling to a few cm2 is sufficient to achieve tactical level laser powers. The temporal dynamics of the 100 ns pump and rubidium laser pulses are presented, and the continually evolving laser efficiency provides insight into the bottlenecking of the rubidium atoms in the 2P3/2 state. Lastly, multiple excited states of rubidium and cesium were accessed through two photon absorption in the red, yielding a blue and an IR photon through amplified stimulated emission. Threshold is modest at 0.3 mJ/pulse, and slope efficiencies increase dramatically with alkali concentrations and peak at 0.4%, with considerable opportunity for improvement. This versatile system might find applications for IR countermeasures or underwater communications.

CW lasing of Ho in KLu(WO4)2 in-band pumped by a diode-pumped Tm:KLu(WO4)2 laser.

PubMed

Mateos, Xavier; Jambunathan, Venkatesan; Pujol, Maria Cinta; Carvajal, Joan Josep; Díaz, Francesc; Aguiló, Magdalena; Griebner, Uwe; Petrov, Valentin

2010-09-27

We demonstrate continuous wave (CW) room temperature laser operation of the monoclinic Ho(3+)-doped KLu(WO(4))(2) crystal using a diode-pumped Tm(3+):KLu(WO(4))(2) laser for in-band pumping. The slope efficiency achieved amounts to ~55% with respect to the absorbed power and the maximum output power of 648 mW is generated at 2078 nm.

Recent Progress Made in the Development of High-Energy UV Transmitter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prasad, Narasimha S.; Singh, Upendra N.; Armstrong, Darrell J.

2007-01-01

In this paper, the status of an all-solid-state UV converter development for ozone sensing applications is discussed. A high energy Nd:YAG laser for pumping the UV converter arrangement was recently reported. The pump is an all-solid-state, single longitudinal mode, and conductively cooled Nd:YAG laser operating at 1064 nm wavelength. Currently, this pump laser provides an output pulse energy of greater than 1J/pulse at 50 Hz PRF and a pulsewidth of 22 ns with an electrical-to-optical system efficiency of greater than 7% and a M(sup 2) value of approx. 2. The spatial profile of the output beam is a rectangular super Gaussian. This Nd:YAG pump laser has been developed to pump the nonlinear optics based UV converter arrangement to generate 320 nm and 308 nm wavelengths by means of 532 nm wavelength. Previously, this UV converter arrangement has demonstrated IR-to-UV conversion efficiency of 24% using a flash lamp pumped laser providing a round, flat top spatial profile. Recently, the UV converter was assembled and tested at NASA LaRC for pumping with the diode pumped Nd:YAG laser. With current spatial profile, the UV converter was made operational. Current efforts to maximize the nonlinear conversion efficiency by refining its spatial profile to match RISTRA OPO requirements are progressing.

Resonantly diode-pumped Er:YAG laser: 1470-nm versus 1530-nm CW pumping case

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kudryashov, Igor; Ter-Gabrielyan, Nikolai; Dubinskii, Mark

2009-05-01

Growing interest to high power lasers in the eye-safe spectral domain initiated a new wave of activity in developing solid-state lasers based on bulk Er3+-doped materials. The resonant pumping of SSL allows for shifting significant part of thermal load from gain medium itself to the pump diodes, thus greatly reducing gain medium thermal distortions deleterious to SSL power scaling with high beam quality. The two major resonant pumping bands in Er:YAG are centered around 1470 and 1532 nm. Pumping into each of these bands has its pros and contras. The best approach to resonant pumping of Er:YAG active media in terms of pump wavelength is yet to be determined. We report the investigation results of high power diode-pumped Er:YAG laser aimed at direct comparison of resonant pumping at 1470 and 1532 nm. Two sources used for pumping were: 1530-nm 10-diode bar stack (>300 W CW) and 1470-nm 10-diode bar stack (>650 W CW). Both pumps were spectrally narrowed by external volume Bragg gratings. The obtained spectral width of less than 1 nm allowed for 'in-line' pumping of Er3+ in either band. The obtained CW power of over 87 W is, to the best of our knowledge, the record high power reported for resonantly pumped Er:YAG DPSSL at room temperature.

Solar pumped laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. H.; Hohl, F.; Weaver, W. R. (Inventor)

1984-01-01

A solar pumped laser is described in which the lasant is a gas that will photodissociate and lase when subjected to sunrays. Sunrays are collected and directed onto the gas lasant to cause it to lase. Applications to laser propulsion and laser power transmission are discussed.

Theoretcial studies of solar-pumped lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harries, W. L.; Fong, Z. S.

1984-01-01

A method of pumping a COhZ laser by a hot cavity was demonstrated. The cavity, heated by solar radiation, should increase the efficiency of solar pumped lasers used for energy conversion. Kinetic modeling is used to examine the behavior of such a COhZ laser. The kinetic equations are solved numerically vs. time and, in addition, steady state solutions are obtained analytically. The effect of gas heating filling the lower laser level is included. The output power and laser efficiency are obtained as functions of black body temperature and gas ratios (COhZ-He-Ar) and pressures. The values are compared with experimental results.

CW YVO4:Er Laser with Resonant Pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gorbachenya, K. N.; Kisel, V. E.; Yasukevich, A. S.; Matrosov, V. N.; Tolstik, N. A.; Kuleshov, N. V.

2015-05-01

The lasing characteristics of a YVO4:Er laser with resonant pumping in the 1.5-1.6 μm range are studied. Lasing is obtained at λ = 1603 nm with a differential efficiency of up to 61%. YVO4:Er crystals are found to offer promise for use in efficient resonantly (in-band) pumped lasers.

Intracavity-pumped Raman laser action in a mid IR, continuous-wave (cw) MgO:PPLN optical parametric oscillator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okishev, Andrey V.; Zuegel, Jonathan D.

2006-12-01

Intracavity-pumped Raman laser action in a fiber-laser pumped, single-resonant, continuous-wave (cw) MgO:PPLN optical parametric oscillator with a high-Q linear resonator has been observed for the first time to our knowledge. Experimental results of this phenomenon investigation will be discussed.

High-energy directly diode-pumped Q-switched 1617 nm Er:YAG laser at room temperature.

PubMed

Wang, Mingjian; Zhu, Liang; Chen, Weibiao; Fan, Dianyuan

2012-09-01

We describe high-energy Erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) lasers operating at 1617 nm, resonantly pumped using 1532 nm fiber-coupled laser diodes. A maximum continuous wave output power of 4.3 W at 1617 nm was achieved with an output coupler of 20% transmission under incident pump power of 29.7 W, resulting in an optical conversion of 14% with respect to the incident pump power. In Q-switched operation, the pulse energy of 11.8 mJ at 100 Hz pulse repetition frequency and 81 ns pulse duration was obtained. This energy is the highest pulse energy reported for a directly diode-pumped Q-switched Er:YAG laser operating at 1617 nm.

Efficient 2.96 micron dysprosium-doped ZBLAN fibre laser pumped at 1.3 micron

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsang, Yuen H.; El-Taher, Atalla E.; King, Terence A.; Chang, Kuang-Po; Jackson, Stuart D.

2006-04-01

Wavelengths around 1.15 μm, 1.3 μm and 1.7 μm can be used to pump Dy-doped ZBLAN fibre in order to generate ~3 μm with high efficiency. Previously the generation of 2.9 μm from the Dy-ZBLAN fibre was demonstrated by pumping with 1.1 μm Yb-silica fibre laser sources. The laser slope efficiency and lasing threshold demonstrated was about ~5% and ~1.78 W. In this investigation, the longer wavelength absorption band ( 6H 9/2 , 6F 11/2) centred at 1.3 μm of Dy 3+-doped ZBLAN is utilised and the lasing transition around ~3 μm takes places from 6H 13/2 --> 6H 15/2. With this pumping scheme the Stokes' efficiency is expected to be up to ~45%. A quasi-continuous wave Dy 3+-ZBLAN fibre laser pumped by a ~1.3 μm Nd:YAG laser and operating at 2.96 μm with a bandwidth (FWHM) of ~14 nm has been demonstrated. For a 60cm fibre length, a threshold of 0.5W and a slope efficiency of ~20% with respect to the absorbed pump power was observed. The overall pump absorption in the fibre was around 84%. The cavity reflectivities at 2.9 μm were 99% and 50%. The demonstrated slope efficiency was 45% of the Stokes' limit. The slope efficiency was around four times higher and the threshold around 3.6 times lower than the previous performance demonstrated by using the 1.1 μm Yb fibre laser pumping scheme. The higher performance achieved compared to the 1.1 μm pump scheme is due to the higher Stokes' limit, lower pump ESA losses and higher cavity reflectivity. About 590 cm -1 Raman Stokes shift has also detected by using 514.5 nm and 488 nm Ar ion laser as excitation pump sources.

Improving solar-pumped laser efficiency by a ring-array concentrator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tibúrcio, Bruno D.; Liang, Dawei; Almeida, Joana; Matos, Rodrigo; Vistas, Cláudia R.

2018-01-01

We report here a compact pumping scheme for achieving large improvement in collection and conversion efficiency of a Nd:YAG solar-pumped laser by an innovative ring-array solar concentrator. An aspheric fused silica lens was used to further concentrate the solar radiation from the focal region of the 1.5-m-diameter ring-array concentrator to a 5.0-mm-diameter, 20-mm-length Nd:YAG single-crystal rod within a conical-shaped pump cavity, enabling multipass pumping to the laser rod. 67.3-W continuous-wave solar laser power was numerically calculated, corresponding to 38.2-W / m2 solar laser collection efficiency, being 1.22 and 1.27 times more than the state-of-the-art records by both heliostat-parabolic mirror and Fresnel lens solar laser systems, respectively. 4.0% conversion efficiency and 0.021-W brightness figure of merit were also numerically obtained, corresponding to 1.25 and 1.62 times enhancement over the previous records, respectively. The influence of tracking error on solar laser output power was also analyzed.

Research on solar pumped liquid lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, R. T.; Kurzweg, U. H.; Cox, J. D.; Weinstein, N. H.

1983-01-01

A solar pumped liquid laser that can be scaled up to high power (10Mw CW) for space applications was developed. Liquid lasers have the inherent advantage over gases in that they provide much higher lasant densities and thus high power densities. Liquids also have inherent advantages over solids in that they have much higher damage thresholds and are much cheaper to produce for large scale applications. Among the liquid laser media that are potential candidates for solar pumping, the POC13:Nd(3+):ZrC14 liquid was chosen for its high intrinsic efficiency as well as its relatively good stability against decomposition due to protic contamination. The development and testing of the laser liquid and the development of a large solar concentrator to pump the laser was emphasized. The procedure to manufacture the laser liquid must include diagnostic tests of the solvent purity (from protic contamination) at various stages in the production process.

Pulsed and cw laser oscillations in LiF:F-2 color center crystal under laser diode pumping.

PubMed

Basiev, Tasoltan T; Vassiliev, Sergey V; Konjushkin, Vasily A; Gapontsev, Valentin P

2006-07-15

Continuous-wave laser oscillations in LiF:F-2 crystal optically pumped by a laser diode at 970 nm were demonstrated for what is believed to be the first time. The slope efficiency of 14% and conversion efficiency of 5.5% were achieved for 80 micros pump pulse duration and 5 Hz pulse repetition rate. An efficiency twice as low was measured at a 6.25 kHz pulse repetition rate (50% off-duty factor) and in cw mode of laser operation.

UV diode-pumped solid state laser for medical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Apollonov, Victor V.; Konstantinov, K. V.; Sirotkin, A. A.

1999-07-01

A compact, solid-state, high-efficiency, and safe UV laser medical system with optical fiber output was created for treatment of destructive forms of pulmonary tuberculosis. A frequency-quadruped quasi-CW Nd:YVO4 laser system pumped by laser-diode array is investigated with various resonator configurations. A longitudinal end-pumping scheme was used in a compact acousto-optical Q-switched laser for producing stable pulses of UV radiation at the repetition frequency 10-20 kHz and the duration 7-10 ns with the fiber-guide output power exceeding 10 mW.

FALCON reactor-pumped laser description and program overview

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

None

1989-12-01

The FALCON (Fission Activated Laser CONcept) reactor-pumped laser program at Sandia National Laboratories is examining the feasibility of high-power systems pumped directly by the energy from a nuclear reactor. In this concept we use the highly energetic fission fragments from neutron induced fission to excite a large volume laser medium. This technology has the potential to scale to extremely large optical power outputs in a primarily self-powered device. A laser system of this type could also be relatively compact and capable of long run times without refueling.

High-power pulse repetitive HF(DF) laser with a solid-state pump generator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Velikanov, S D; Domazhirov, A P; Zaretskiy, N A

2015-11-30

Operation of a repetitively pulsed electric-discharge HF(DF) laser with an all-solid-state pump generator based on FID switches is demonstrated. The energy stored in the pump generator capacitors was 880 J at an open-circuit voltage of 240 kV and a discharge pulse repetition rate of 25 Hz. The specific energy extractions were 3.8 and 3.4 J L{sup -1} for the HF and DF lasers, respectively. The possibilities of improving the output laser characteristics are discussed. (lasers)

Continuous-wave operation of a room-temperature, diode-laser-pumped, 946-nm Nd:YAG laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fan, T. Y.; Byer, Robert L.

1987-01-01

Single-stripe diode-laser-pumped operation of a continuous-wave 946-nm Nd:YAG laser with less than 10-mW threshold has been demonstrated. A slope efficiency of 16 percent near threshold was shown with a projected slope efficiency well above a threshold of 34 percent based on results under Rhodamine 6G dye-laser pumping. Nonlinear crystals for second-harmonic generation of this source were evaluated. KNbO3 and periodically poled LiNbO3 appear to be the most promising.

High Average Power Diode Pumped Solid State Lasers: Power Scaling With High Spectral and Spatial Coherence

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-03-30

seeded with 15 W of single-frequency laser light at 1064 nm and cladding -pumped of 700 W in the forward direction and 300 W in the opposite direction...57-W single-mode phosphate fiber laser Our early studies of phosphate fiber lasers taught us that adding an air-hole to the inner cladding and... cladding -pumped with a fiber-coupled laser diode at 977 nm through a dichroic beam splitter placed on the OC side. The fiber ends were cooled using the

Application of lasers and pulsed power to coating removal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, Chris M.; Moeny, William M.; Curry, Randy D.; McDonald, Ken; Bosma, John T.

1995-03-01

Lasers and other pulsed power systems are uniquely suited for removal of coatings from a wide variety of substrates. Coatings which can be removed by these systems include paint, adhesives, epoxies, dips, rust, scale, and bird droppings. Suitable substrates include wood, metal, cloth, stone, ceramic, plastics, and even skin. These systems have the advantage over chemical stripping or mechanical abrasion in that the substrate is left virtually unharmed and in many cases the residue is reduced to a form that is more easily disposed of without toxic byproducts or expensive refurbishment. Furthermore, laser and other pulsed power based systems can be operated using only local containment without the need for special operator protective gear or complete enclosure of the substrate structure. Additional advantages are gained in these systems because they typically combine multiple removal mechanisms for greater effectiveness. For example, pulsed lasers create rapid heating of the coating. This rapid heating can result in chemical breakdown of the coating, thermomechanical stress induced dislocation, shock wave agitation, and physical ablation. This paper presents some of the latest research findings on coating removal using these systems. A comparative survey of the system technology, effectiveness, cost, and application is presented. Also presented is a survey of the commercial potential for the systems. Systems which are presented include lasers (CW, pulsed, Infrared, UV, etc.), flashlamps, electro-cathodic debonders, electron beams, and glow discharges.

All-fiber linearly polarized high power 2-μm single mode Tm-fiber laser for plastic processing and Ho-laser pumping applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scholle, K.; Schäfer, M.; Lamrini, S.; Wysmolek, M.; Steinke, M.; Neumann, J.; Fuhrberg, P.

2018-02-01

In this paper we present a high power, polarized 2 μm Thulium-doped fiber laser with high beam quality. Such laser systems are ideally suited for the processing of plastic materials which are highly transparent in the visible and 1 μm wavelength range and for the pumping of laser sources for the mid-IR wavelength region. For most applications polarized lasers are beneficial, as they can be easily protected from back reflections and combined with other laser sources or power scaled by polarization combining. The Tm-doped fiber laser is pumped in an all-fiber configuration by using a fiber coupled pump diode emitting around 790 nm. This pumping scheme allows the exploitation of the crossrelaxation process to populate the upper laser level. A compact and robust laser configuration was achieved by using an all-fiber configuration with single mode fibers and fiber Bragg gratings (FBG). Different FBG pairs with wavelength around 2 μm were tested. To achieve stable polarized output power the fibers with the FBG were 90° twisted at the splices. Stable linearly polarized output power up to 38 W with an extinction ratio of up to 50:1 was observed. With respect to the diode output power an optical-to-optical efficiency of 51 % was reached with a correspondent slope efficiency of 52 %. The emission linewidth at maximum power was measured to be < 0.3 nm which is well suitable for Ho-laser pumping. First tests of the precise processing of highly transparent plastic materials demonstrate the potentials of these laser systems.

Exploring Ultrafast Structural Dynamics for Energetic Enhancement or Disruption

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

it. In a pump -push/ dump probe experiment, a secondary laser pulse (push/ dump ) is used after the initial perturbation due to the pump pulse. The...increased. The pump -push/ dump probe technique is a difficult experiment that requires a highly stable laser source. Ultrafast pump -probe experiments...decomposition of solids. Journal of Applied Physics. 2001;89:4156–4166. 17. Kee TW. Femtosecond pump -push-probe and pump - dump -probe spectroscopy of

Cr:ZnSe laser pumped with Tm:YAP microchip laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koranda, Petr; Sulc, Jan; Doroshenko, Maxim; Jelinková, Helena; Basiev, Tasoltan T.; Osiko, Vjatcheslav; Badikov, V. V.; Badikov, D.

2010-02-01

Cr:ZnSe laser coherently longitudinally pumped with Tm:YAP microchip laser was realised. The pumping laser consisted of Tm:YAP crystal (3x3 mm) with resonator mirrors deposited directly on its faces (on rear face the dielectric layer with high reflectance for 1998 nm wavelength and high transmittance for 790 nm pumping radiation wavelength; on output face the dielectric layer with reflectance 97% at 1998 nm wavelength). The maximal output power was 5.5 W and the generated radiation wavelength was 1998 nm. The main advantage of this pumping was stable and still output without relaxation spikes (non-spiking). The Tm:YAP laser radiation was collimated and focused by the set of two CaF2 lenses. The pumping beam spot diameter inside the Cr:ZnSe crystal was 300 μm. The Cr:ZnSe laser resonator consisted of flat rear mirror (HT at 1998 nm and HR at 2100 - 2900 nm) and curved output coupler (r = -150 mm, R = 95% at 2100 - 2700 nm). The maximal output energy of stable radiation was 4 mJ (pulse duration 10 ms, repetition rate 10 Hz). For wavelength tuning the Lyott filter (quartz plate under Brewster angle) was placed between the Cr:ZnSe crystal and output coupler. The generated radiation wavelength was continuously tunable from 2246 - 2650 nm.

Diode-laser pumping into the emitting level for efficient lasing of depressed cladding waveguides realized in Nd:YVO4 by the direct femtosecond-laser writing technique.

PubMed

Pavel, Nicolaie; Salamu, Gabriela; Jipa, Florin; Zamfirescu, Marian

2014-09-22

Depressed cladding waveguides have been realized in Nd:YVO(4) employing direct writing technique with a femtosecond-laser beam. It was shown that the output performances of such laser devices are improved by the reduction of the quantum defect between the pump wavelength and the laser wavelength. Thus, under the classical pump at 808 nm (i.e. into the (4)F(5/2) level), a 100-μm diameter circular waveguide inscribed in a 0.7-at.% Nd:YVO(4) outputted 1.06-μm laser pulses with 3.0-mJ energy, at 0.30 optical efficiency and slope efficiency of 0.32. The pump at 880 nm (i.e.directly into the (4)F(3/2) emitting level) increased the pulse energy at 3.8 mJ and improved both optical efficiency and slope efficiency at 0.36 and 0.39, respectively. The same waveguide yielded continuous-wave 1.5-W output power at 1.06 μm under the pump at 880 nm. Laser emission at 1.34 μm was also improved using the pump into the (4)F(3/2) emitting level of Nd:YVO(4).

Solar-pumped solid state Nd lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, M. D.; Zapata, L.

1985-01-01

Solid state neodymium lasers are considered candidates for space-based polar-pumped laser for continuous power transmission. Laser performance for three different slab laser configurations has been computed to show the excellent power capability of such systems if heat problems can be solved. Ideas involving geometries and materials are offered as potential solutions to the heat problem.

Development of lasers optimized for pumping Ti:Al2O3 lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rines, Glen A.; Schwarz, Richard A.

1994-01-01

Laboratory demonstrations that were completed included: (1) an all-solid-state, broadly tunable, single-frequency, Ti:Al2O3 master oscillator, and (2) a technique for obtaining 'long' (nominally 100- to 200-ns FWHM) laser pulses from a Q-switched, Nd oscillator at energy levels commensurate with straightforward amplification to the joule level. A diode-laser-pumped, Nd:YLF laser with intracavity SHG was designed, constructed, and evaluated. With this laser greater than 0.9 W of CW, output power at 523.5 nm with 10 W of diode-laser pump power delivered to the Nd:YLF crystal was obtained. With this laser as a pump source, for the first time, to our knowledge, an all solid-state, single frequency, Ti:Al203 laser with sufficient output power to injection seed a high-energy oscillator over a 20-nm bandwidth was demonstrated. The pulsed laser work succeeded in demonstrating pulse-stretching in a Q-switched Nd:YAG oscillator. Pulse energies greater than 50-mJ were obtained in pulses with 100- to 200-ns pulsewidths (FWHM).

Resonantly diode laser pumped 1.6-μm Er:YAG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garbuzov, Dmitri; Kudryashov, Igor; Dubinskii, Mark

2005-06-01

We report what is believed to be the first demonstration of direct resonant diode pumping of a 1.6-mm Er3+-doped bulk solid-state laser (DPSSL). The most of the results is obtained with pumping Er:YAG by the single mode diode laser packaged in fibered modules. The fibered modules, emitting at 1470 nm and 1530 nm wavelength with and without fiber grating (FBG) stabilization, have been used in pumping experiments. The very first results on high power DPSSL operation achieved with diode array pumping also will be presented. The highest absorbed photon conversion efficiency of 26% has been obtained for Er:YAG DPSSL using the 1470-nm single-mode module. Analysis of the DPSSL input-output characteristics suggests that the obtained slope efficiency can be increased at least up to 40% through the reduction of intracavity losses and pumping efficiency improvement. Diode pumped SSL (DPSSL) operates at a wavelength of 1617 nm and 1645 nm.

Research on solar pumped liquid lasers. Final Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cox, J.D.; Kurzweg, U.H.; Weinstein, N.H.

1985-04-01

A solar pumped liquid laser that can be scaled up to high power (10 mW CW) for space applications was developed. Liquid lasers have the advantage over gases in that they provide much higher lasant densities and thus high-power densities. Liquids also have advantages over solids in that they have much higher damage thresholds and are much cheaper to produce for large scale applications. Among the liquid laser media that are potential candidates for solar pumping, the POC13: Nd sup 3+:ZrCl4 liquid was chosen for its high intrinsic efficiency and its relatively good stability against decomposition due to protic contamination.more » The development of a manufacturing procedure and performance testing of the laser liquid and the development of an inexpensive large solar concentrator to pump the laser are examined.« less

Reversing the pump dependence of a laser at an exceptional point

PubMed Central

Brandstetter, M.; Liertzer, M.; Deutsch, C.; Klang, P.; Schöberl, J.; Türeci, H. E.; Strasser, G.; Unterrainer, K.; Rotter, S.

2014-01-01

When two resonant modes in a system with gain or loss coalesce in both their resonance position and their width, a so-called exceptional point occurs, which acts as a source of non-trivial physics in a diverse range of systems. Lasers provide a natural setting to study such non-Hermitian degeneracies, as they feature resonant modes and a gain material as their basic constituents. Here we show that exceptional points can be conveniently induced in a photonic molecule laser by a suitable variation of the applied pump. Using a pair of coupled microdisk quantum cascade lasers, we demonstrate that in the vicinity of these exceptional points the coupled laser shows a characteristic reversal of its pump dependence, including a strongly decreasing intensity of the emitted laser light for increasing pump power. PMID:24925314

TEM00 mode Nd:YAG solar laser by side-pumping a grooved rod

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vistas, Cláudia R.; Liang, Dawei; Almeida, Joana; Guillot, Emmanuel

2016-05-01

A simple TEM00 mode solar laser system with a grooved Nd:YAG rod pumped through a heliostat-parabolic mirror system is reported here. The radiation coupling capacity of a fused silica tube lens was combined with the multipass pumping ability of a 2 V-shaped cavity to provide efficient side-pumping along a 4.0 mm diameter grooved Nd:YAG single-crystal rod. TEM00 mode solar laser power of 3.4 W was measured by adopting an asymmetric large-mode laser resonant cavity. Record TEM00 mode solar laser collection efficiency of 3.4 W/m2and slope efficiency of 1.9% was achieved, which corresponds to 1.8 and 2.4 times more than the previous TEM00 mode Nd:YAG solar laser using the PROMES-CNRS heliostat-parabolic mirror system, respectively.

Simple efficient travelin-wave excitation of short-wavelength lasers using a conical pumping geometry.

PubMed

Silfvast, W T; Ii, O R

1989-01-01

A conically shaped pumping geometry can produce an efficient burst of laser radiation, without the need for an optical cavity, by restricting amplified spontaneous emission losses to a small region near the apex of the cone. Requirements on the active medium and on the size and intensity of the pumping source to make such a burst laser are derived. We calculate that a 15-mJ pulse of energy at 37.2 nm at an efficiency of 0.15% can be extracted from sodium vapor photoionized with radiation from a 1.06-microm-laser-produced plasma using this pumping geometry.

Single-frequency diode-pumped lasers for free-space optical communication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kane, Thomas J.; Cheng, Emily A. P.; Gerstenberger, David C.; Wallace, Richard W.

1990-01-01

Recent advances in laser technology for intersatellite optical communication systems are reviewed and illustrated with graphs and diagrams. Topics addressed include (1) single-frequency diode-pumped Nd:YAG lasers of monolithic ring configuration (yielding 368-384 mW output power with 1-W pumping), (2) injection chaining of up to 10 monolithic resonators to achieve redundancy and/or higher output power, (3) 2-kHz-linewidth 5-mW versions of (1) which are tunable over a 30-MHz range for use as local oscillators in coherent communication, (4) resonant external modulation and doubling or resonant phase modulation of diode-pumped lasers, and (5) wavelength multiplexing.

Continuous-wave and actively Q-switched resonantly dual-end-pumped Er : YAG ceramic laser emitting at 1.6 μm

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dai, T Y; Deng, Yu; Ju, Y-L

2015-12-31

We demonstrate a continuous-wave (cw) and actively Q-switched Er : YAG ceramic laser resonantly dual-end-pumped by a 1532 nm fibre-coupled laser diode. A maximum cw output power of 1.48 W at 1645.3 nm is obtained at an absorbed pump power of 12.72 W, corresponding to a slope efficiency of 19.2%. In the Q-switched regime the maximum pulse energy of 0.84 mJ is reached at a pulse repetition rate of 100 Hz, pulse duration of 48.03 ns and absorbed pump power of 10.51 W. (lasers)

Intracavity doubling of cw LD pumped Nd:S-FAP laser with KTP

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang Shaojun; Sun Lianke; Wang Qingpu

In this paper the lasing performance of a intracavity doubling of CW diode-laser end-pumped Nd{sup 3+}:Sr{sub 5}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3}F, Nd:S-FAP, laser with KTP crystal was reported. The authors measured the single output performance of the green laser: the pumping threshold was 8mW; when the pumping light of 210mW was absorbed, the maximum single output at 529.7nm was 4.4mW (TEM{sub 00} mode), corresponding to a total conversion efficiency 2.1%. The comparison between experimental results and theoretical calculation was also discussed in this paper.

Cascade conical refraction for annular pumping of a vortex Nd:YAG laser and selective excitation of low- and high-order Laguerre–Gaussian modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yongxiao; Wang, Zhongyang; Chen, Sanbin; Shirakwa, Akira; Ueda, Ken-ichi; Li, Jianlang

2018-05-01

We proposed an efficient and vortex Nd:YAG laser for selective lasing of low- and high-order vortex modes, in which multiple-ring pump light was originated from cascaded conical refraction of multiple biaxial crystals. In our proof of concept demonstration, we used two-crystal cascade conical refraction to generate two-ring pump light; the mutual intensity ratio and relative separation of the inner ring and outer ring were controlled by rotating the second biaxial crystal and by moving the imaging lens, respectively. As a result, we obtained selective excitation of Laguerre–Gaussian (LG01 and LG03) vortex modes in the end-pump Nd:YAG laser. For LG01-mode output, the laser power reached 439 mW with 52.5% slope efficiency; for LG03-mode output, the laser power reached 160 mW with 41.3% slope efficiency. Our results revealed that the multiple-ring pumping technique based on cascaded conical refraction would pave the way for realization of the efficient and switchable excitation of low- and high-order LG modes in an end-pumped solid-state laser.

Composite, all-ceramics, high-peak power Nd:YAG/Cr(4+):YAG monolithic micro-laser with multiple-beam output for engine ignition.

PubMed

Pavel, Nicolaie; Tsunekane, Masaki; Taira, Takunori

2011-05-09

A passively Q-switched Nd:YAG/Cr(4+):YAG micro-laser with three-beam output was realized. A single active laser source made of a composite, all-ceramics Nd:YAG/Cr(4+):YAG monolithic cavity was pumped by three independent lines. At 5 Hz repetition rate, each line delivered laser pulses with ~2.4 mJ energy and 2.8-MW peak power. The M(2) factor of a laser beam was 3.7, and stable air breakdowns were realized. The increase of pump repetition rate up to 100 Hz improved the laser pulse energy by 6% and required ~6% increase of the pump pulse energy. Pulse timing of the laser-array beams can by adjusted by less than 5% tuning of an individual line pump energy, and therefore simultaneous multi-point ignition is possible. This kind of laser can be used for multi-point ignition of an automobile engine. © 2011 Optical Society of America

Ti : sapphire laser synchronised with femtosecond Yb pump laser via nonlinear pulse coupling in Ti : sapphire active medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Didenko, N. V.; Konyashchenko, A. V.; Konyashchenko, D. A.; Kostryukov, P. V.; Kuritsyn, I. I.; Lutsenko, A. P.; Mavritskiy, A. O.

2017-02-01

A laser system utilising the method of synchronous pumping of a Ti : sapphire laser by a high-power femtosecond Yb3+-doped laser is described. The pulse repetition rate of the Ti : sapphire laser is successfully locked to the repetition rate of the Yb laser for more than 6 hours without the use of any additional electronics. The measured timing jitter is shown to be less than 1 fs. A simple qualitative model addressing the synchronisation mechanism utilising the cross-phase modulation of oscillation and pump pulses within a Ti : sapphire active medium is proposed. Output parameters of the Ti : sapphire laser as functions of its cavity length are discussed in terms of this model.

Laser emission from diode-pumped Nd:YAG ceramic waveguide lasers realized by direct femtosecond-laser writing technique.

PubMed

Salamu, Gabriela; Jipa, Florin; Zamfirescu, Marian; Pavel, Nicolaie

2014-03-10

We report on realization of buried waveguides in Nd:YAG ceramic media by direct femtosecond-laser writing technique and investigate the waveguides laser emission characteristics under the pump with fiber-coupled diode lasers. Laser pulses at 1.06 μm with energy of 2.8 mJ for the pump with pulses of 13.1-mJ energy and continuous-wave output power of 0.49 W with overall optical efficiency of 0.13 were obtained from a 100-μm diameter circular cladding waveguide realized in a 0.7-at.% Nd:YAG ceramic. A circular waveguide of 50-μm diameter yielded laser pulses at 1.3 μm with 1.2-mJ energy.

LASE validation experiment: preliminary processing of relative humidity from LASE derived water vapor in the middle to upper troposphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brackett, Vincent G.; Ismail, Syed; Browell, Edward V.; Kooi, Susan A.; Clayton, Marian B.; Ferrare, Richard A.; Minnis, Patrick; Getzewich, Brian J.; Staszel, Jennifer

1998-01-01

Lidar Atmospheric Sensing Experiment (LASE) is the first fully engineered, autonomous airborne DIAL (Differentials Absorption Lidar) system to measure water vapor, aerosols, and clouds throughout the troposphere. This system uses a double-pulsed Ti:sapphire laser, which is pumped by a frequency-doubled flashlamp-pumped Nd: YAG laser, to transmit light in the 815 mn absorption band of water vapor. LASE operates by locking to a strong water vapor line and electronically tuning to any spectral position on the absorption line to choose the suitable absorption cross-section for optimum measurements over a range of concentrations in the atmosphere. During the LASE Validation Experiment, which was conducted over Wallops Island during September, 1995, LASE operated on either the strong water line for measurements in middle to upper troposphere, or on the weak water line for measurements made in the middle to lower troposphere including the boundary layer. Comparisons with water vapor measurements made by airborne dew point and frost point hygrometers, NASA/GSFC (Goddard Space Flight Center) Raman Lidar, and radiosondes showed the LASE water vapor mixing ratio measurements to have an accuracy of better than 6% or 0.01 g/kg, whichever is larger, throughout the troposphere. In addition to measuring water vapor mixing ratio profiles, LASE simultaneously measures aerosol backscattering profiles at the off-line wavelength near 815 nm from which atmospheric scattering ratio (ASR) profiles are calculated. ASR is defined as the ratio of total (aerosol + molecular) atmospheric scattering to molecular scattering. Assuming a region with very low aerosol loading can be identified, such as that typically found just below the tropopause, then the ASR can be determined. The ASR profiles are calculated by normalizing the scattering in the region containing enhanced aerosols to the expected scattering by the "clean" atmosphere at that altitude. Images of the total ASR clearly depict cloud regions, including multiple cloud layers, thin upper level cirrus, etc., throughout the troposphere. New data products that are being derived from the LASE aerosol and water measurements include: 1) aerosol extinction coefficient, 2) aerosol optical thickness, 3) precipitable water vapor, and 4) relative humidity (RH). These products can be compared with airborne in-situ, and ground and satellite remote sensing measurements,. This paper presents a preliminary examination of RH profiles in the middle to upper troposphere that are generated from LASE measured water vapor mixing ratio profiles coupled with rawinsonde profiles of temperature and pressure.

Quasi-three level Nd:YLF fundamental and Raman laser operating under 872-nm and 880-nm direct diode pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wetter, Niklaus U.; Bereczki, Allan; Paes, João. Pedro Fonseca

2018-02-01

Nd:YLiF4 is the gain material of choice whenever outstanding beam quality or a birefringent gain material is necessary such as in certain applications for terahertz radiation or dual-frequency mode-locking. However, for high power CW applications the material is hampered by a low thermal fracture threshold. This problem can be mitigated by special 2D pump set-ups or by keeping the quantum defect to a minimum. Direct pumping into the upper laser level of Nd:YLiF4 is usually performed at 880 nm. For quasi-three level laser emission at 908 nm, direct pumping at this wavelength provides a high quantum defect of 0.97, which allows for very high CW pump powers. Although the direct pumping transition to the upper laser state at 872 nm has a slightly smaller quantum defect of 0.96, its pump absorption cross section along the c-axis is 50% higher than at 880 nm, leading to a higher absorption efficiency. In this work we explore, for the first time to our knowledge, 908 nm lasing under 872 nm diode pumping and compare the results with 880 nm pumping for quasicw and cw operation. By inserting a KGW crystal in the cavity, Raman lines at 990 nm and 972 nm were obtained for the first time from a directly pumped 908 nm Nd:YLF fundamental laser for both quasi-cw and cw conditions.

Optimising the efficiency of pulsed diode pumped Yb:YAG laser amplifiers for ns pulse generation.

PubMed

Ertel, K; Banerjee, S; Mason, P D; Phillips, P J; Siebold, M; Hernandez-Gomez, C; Collier, J C

2011-12-19

We present a numerical model of a pulsed, diode-pumped Yb:YAG laser amplifier for the generation of high energy ns-pulses. This model is used to explore how optical-to-optical efficiency depends on factors such as pump duration, pump spectrum, pump intensity, doping concentration, and operating temperature. We put special emphasis on finding ways to achieve high efficiency within the practical limitations imposed by real-world laser systems, such as limited pump brightness and limited damage fluence. We show that a particularly advantageous way of improving efficiency within those constraints is operation at cryogenic temperature. Based on the numerical findings we present a concept for a scalable amplifier based on an end-pumped, cryogenic, gas-cooled multi-slab architecture.

A Modular Control Platform for a Diode Pumped Alkali Laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shapiro, J.; Teare, S.

Many of the difficulties of creating compact, high power laser systems can be overcome if the heat dissipating properties of chemical lasers can be combined with the efficiency of diode lasers. Recently, the novel idea of using solid state diode lasers to pump gaseous gain media, such as is done in diode pumped alkali lasers (DPALs), has been proposed and early experiments have shown promising results. However, a number of technical issues need to be overcome to realize high output power from these lasers. In order to achieve higher power, the efficiency of coupling between pump laser energy and the chemical cell must be increased, and eventually multiple high power diode pumps must be combined and synchronized so that their energy can pump the chemical cell. Additionally, an inter-cavity adaptive optics system may be a requirement to be able to propagate these lasers with high efficiency. DPAL systems are complex and require a significant amount of data fusion and active feedback to control and optimize their performance. There are a wide range of components including pump lasers, gain cells and monitoring points needed to study and refine the overall laser system. In support of this dynamic development environment, we have developed a hardware framework using commercial off the shelf (COTS) components which supports the rapid assembly of functional system blocks into a cohesive integrated system. Critical to this system are a simple communication protocol, industry standard communication pipes (USB, Bluetooth, etc), and flexible high level scripting. Simplifying the integration process has the benefit of allowing flexible "on the fly" modifications to adapt the system as needed and enhance available functionality. The modular nature of the architecture allows scalability and adaptability as more pieces are added to the system. Key components of this system are demonstrated for selected portions of a DPAL system using a USB backbone.

Yb:FAP and related materials, laser gain medium comprising same, and laser systems using same

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krupke, William F.; Payne, Stephen A.; Chase, Lloyd L.

An ytterbium doped laser material remarkably superior to all others, including Yb:YAG, comprises Ytterbium doped apatite (Yb:Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 F) or Yb:FAP, or ytterbium doped crystals that are structurally related to FAP. The new laser material is used in laser systems pumped by diode pump sources having an output near 0.905 microns or 0.98 microns, such as InGaAs and AlInGaAs, or other narrowband pump sources near 0.905 microns or 0.98 microns. The laser systems are operated in either the conventional or ground state depletion mode.

Yb:FAP and related materials, laser gain medium comprising same, and laser systems using same

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krupke, W.F.; Payne, S.A.; Chase, L.L.

An ytterbium doped laser material remarkably superior to all others, including Yb:YAG, comprises ytterbium doped apatite (Yb:Ca[sub 5](PO[sub 4])[sub 3]F) or Yb:FAP, or ytterbium doped crystals that are structurally related to FAP. The new laser material is used in laser systems pumped by diode pump sources having an output near 0.905 microns or 0.98 microns, such as InGaAs and AlInGaAs, or other narrowband pump sources near 0.905 microns or 0.98 microns. The laser systems are operated in either the conventional or ground state depletion mode. 9 figures.

Yb:FAP and related materials, laser gain medium comprising same, and laser systems using same

DOEpatents

Krupke, W.F.; Payne, S.A.; Chase, L.L.; Smith, L.K.

1994-01-18

An ytterbium doped laser material remarkably superior to all others, including Yb:YAG, comprises ytterbium doped apatite (Yb:Ca[sub 5](PO[sub 4])[sub 3]F) or Yb:FAP, or ytterbium doped crystals that are structurally related to FAP. The new laser material is used in laser systems pumped by diode pump sources having an output near 0.905 microns or 0.98 microns, such as InGaAs and AlInGaAs, or other narrowband pump sources near 0.905 microns or 0.98 microns. The laser systems are operated in either the conventional or ground state depletion mode. 9 figures.

Yb:FAP and related materials, laser gain medium comprising same, and laser systems using same

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krupke, W.F.; Payne, S.A.; Chase, L.L.

An ytterbium doped laser material remarkably superior to all others, including Yb:YAG, comprises ytterbium doped apatite (Yb:Ca{sub 5}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3}F) or Yb:FAP, or ytterbium doped crystals structurally related to FAP. The new laser material is used in laser systems pumped by diode pump sources having an output near 0.905 microns or 0.98 microns, such as InGaAs and AlInGaAs, or other narrowband pump sources near 0.905 microns or 0.98 microns. The laser systems are operated in either the conventional or ground state depletion mode.

An All-Solid-State High Repetiton Rate Titanium:Sapphire Laser System For Resonance Ionization Laser Ion Sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mattolat, C.; Rothe, S.; Schwellnus, F.; Gottwald, T.; Raeder, S.; Wendt, K.

2009-03-01

On-line production facilities for radioactive isotopes nowadays heavily rely on resonance ionization laser ion sources due to their demonstrated unsurpassed efficiency and elemental selectivity. Powerful high repetition rate tunable pulsed dye or Ti:sapphire lasers can be used for this purpose. To counteract limitations of short pulse pump lasers, as needed for dye laser pumping, i.e. copper vapor lasers, which include high maintenance and nevertheless often only imperfect reliability, an all-solid-state Nd:YAG pumped Ti:sapphire laser system has been constructed. This could complement or even replace dye laser systems, eliminating their disadvantages but on the other hand introduce shortcomings on the side of the available wavelength range. Pros and cons of these developments will be discussed.

Squeezed light from conventionally pumped multi-level lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ralph, T. C.; Savage, C. M.

1992-01-01

We have calculated the amplitude squeezing in the output of several conventionally pumped multi-level lasers. We present results which show that standard laser models can produce significantly squeezed outputs in certain parameter ranges.

Direct nuclear pumped laser

DOEpatents

Miley, George H.; Wells, William E.; DeYoung, Russell J.

1978-01-01

There is provided a direct nuclear pumped gas laser in which the lasing mechanism is collisional radiated recombination of ions. The gas laser active medium is a mixture of the gases, with one example being neon and nitrogen.

Comparative study of diode-pumped alkali vapor laser and exciplex-pumped alkali laser systems and selection principal of parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Wei; Tan, Rongqing; Li, Zhiyong; Han, Gaoce; Li, Hui

2017-03-01

A theoretical model based on common pump structure is proposed to analyze the output characteristics of a diode-pumped alkali vapor laser (DPAL) and XPAL (exciplex-pumped alkali laser). Cs-DPAL and Cs-Ar XPAL systems are used as examples. The model predicts that an optical-to-optical efficiency approaching 80% can be achieved for continuous-wave four- and five-level XPAL systems with broadband pumping, which is several times the pumped linewidth for DPAL. Operation parameters including pumped intensity, temperature, cell's length, mixed gas concentration, pumped linewidth, and output coupler are analyzed for DPAL and XPAL systems based on the kinetic model. In addition, the predictions of selection principal of temperature and cell's length are also presented. The concept of the equivalent "alkali areal density" is proposed. The result shows that the output characteristics with the same alkali areal density but different temperatures turn out to be equal for either the DPAL or the XPAL system. It is the areal density that reflects the potential of DPAL or XPAL systems directly. A more detailed analysis of similar influences of cavity parameters with the same areal density is also presented.

Environmental testing of a diode-laser-pumped Nd:YAG laser and a set of diode-laser-arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hemmati, H.; Lesh, J. R.

1989-01-01

Results of the environmental test of a compact, rigid and lightweight diode-laser-pumped Nd:YAG laser module are discussed. All optical elements are bonded onto the module using space applicable epoxy, and two 200 mW diode laser arrays for pump sources are used to achieve 126 mW of CW output with about 7 percent electrical-to-optical conversion efficiency. This laser assembly and a set of 20 semiconductor diode laser arrays were environmentally tested by being subjected to vibrational and thermal conditions similar to those experienced during launch of the Space Shuttle, and both performed well. Nevertheless, some damage to the laser front facet in diode lasers was observed. Significant degradation was observed only on lasers which performed poorly in the life test. Improvements in the reliability of the Nd:YAG laser are suggested.

Optically pumped isotopic ammonia laser system

DOEpatents

Buchwald, Melvin I.; Jones, Claude R.; Nelson, Leonard Y.

1982-01-01

An optically pumped isotopic ammonia laser system which is capable of producing a plurality of frequencies in the middle infrared spectral region. Two optical pumping mechanisms are disclosed, i.e., pumping on R(J) and lasing on P(J) in response to enhancement of rotational cascade lasing including stimulated Raman effects, and, pumping on R(J) and lasing on P(J+2). The disclosed apparatus for optical pumping include a hole coupled cavity and a grating coupled cavity.

Sub-Nanosecond Infrared Optical Parametric Pulse Generation in Periodically Poled Lithium Niobate Pumped by a Seeded Fiber Amplifier

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-02-01

Photonics. New York: John J. Wiley & Sons, Inc, 1991. 30. “How to (Maybe) Measure Laser Beam Quality” Prof. A. E. Siegman Tutorial Presentation at...Deterministic Nanosecond Laser -Induced Breakdown Thresholds in Pure and Yb3+ Doped Fused Silica,” Proc. of SPIE 6453 (2007) 37. Siegman , A.E...seeded at one end and pumped at the other end, using dichroic filters to protect the pump and seed lasers , creating a fiber amplifier. The seed laser

Space qualified Nd:YAG laser (phase 1 - design)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foster, J. D.; Kirk, R. F.

1971-01-01

Results of a design study and preliminary design of a space qualified Nd:YAG laser are presented. A theoretical model of the laser was developed to allow the evaluation of the effects of various parameters on its performance. Various pump lamps were evaluated and sum pumping was considered. Cooling requirements were examined and cooling methods such as radiation, cryogenic and conductive were analysed. Power outputs and efficiences of various configurations and the pump and laser lifetime are discussed. Also considered were modulation and modulating methods.

Proof of the Feasibility of Coherent and Incoherent Schemes for Pumping a Gamma-Ray Laser

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-07-01

DIP!; ilLE-CWPj AD-A 799 638 The University of Texas at DallasCenter for Quantlin, Electronics The Gamma-Ray Laser Project Quarterly Report April...AND INCOHERENT SCHEMES FOR PUMPING A GAMMA-RAY LASER Principal Investigator: Carl B. Collins The University of Texas at Dallas Center for Quantum...FEASIBILITY OF Quarterly Technical Progress COHERENT AND INCOHERENT SCHEMES /I/RR - 61WARA FOR PUMPING A GAMMA-RAY LASER 6.PERFORMINO ORG. REPORT NUMBER

Pump and probe spectroscopy with continuous wave quantum cascade lasers.

PubMed

Kirkbride, James M R; Causier, Sarah K; Dalton, Andrew R; Weidmann, Damien; Ritchie, Grant A D

2014-02-07

This paper details infra-red pump and probe studies on nitric oxide conducted with two continuous wave quantum cascade lasers both operating around 5 μm. The pump laser prepares a velocity selected population in a chosen rotational quantum state of the v = 1 level which is subsequently probed using a second laser tuned to a rotational transition within the v = 2 ← v = 1 hot band. The rapid frequency scan of the probe (with respect to the molecular collision rate) in combination with the velocity selective pumping allows observation of marked rapid passage signatures in the transient absorption profiles from the polarized vibrationally excited sample. These coherent transient signals are influenced by the underlying hyperfine structure of the pump and probe transitions, the sample pressure, and the coherent properties of the lasers. Pulsed pump and probe studies show that the transient absorption signals decay within 1 μs at 50 mTorr total pressure, reflecting both the polarization and population dephasing times of the vibrationally excited sample. The experimental observations are supported by simulation based upon solving the optical Bloch equations for a two level system.

High temperature semiconductor diode laser pumps for high energy laser applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, Jenna; Semenic, Tadej; Guinn, Keith; Leisher, Paul O.; Bhunia, Avijit; Mashanovitch, Milan; Renner, Daniel

2018-02-01

Existing thermal management technologies for diode laser pumps place a significant load on the size, weight and power consumption of High Power Solid State and Fiber Laser systems, thus making current laser systems very large, heavy, and inefficient in many important practical applications. To mitigate this thermal management burden, it is desirable for diode pumps to operate efficiently at high heat sink temperatures. In this work, we have developed a scalable cooling architecture, based on jet-impingement technology with industrial coolant, for efficient cooling of diode laser bars. We have demonstrated 60% electrical-to-optical efficiency from a 9xx nm two-bar laser stack operating with propylene-glycolwater coolant, at 50 °C coolant temperature. To our knowledge, this is the highest efficiency achieved from a diode stack using 50 °C industrial fluid coolant. The output power is greater than 100 W per bar. Stacks with additional laser bars are currently in development, as this cooler architecture is scalable to a 1 kW system. This work will enable compact and robust fiber-coupled diode pump modules for high energy laser applications.

Passively mode-locked high power Nd:GdVO4 laser with direct in-band pumping at 912 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nadimi, Mohammad; Waritanant, Tanant; Major, Arkady

2018-01-01

We report on the first semiconductor saturable absorber mirror mode-locked Nd:GdVO4 laser directly diode-pumped at 912 nm. The laser generated 10.14 W of averaged output power at 1063 nm with the pulse width of 16 ps at the repetition rate of 85.2 MHz. The optical-to-optical efficiency and slope efficiency in the mode-locked regime were calculated to be 49.6% and 67.4% with respect to the absorbed pump power, respectively. Due to the low quantum defect pumping the output power was limited only by the available pump power.

125-mJ diode-pumped injection-seeded Ho:Tm:YLF laser.

PubMed

Yu, J; Singh, U N; Barnes, N P; Petros, M

1998-05-15

We describe a diode-pumped, room-temperature Ho:Tm:YLF power oscillator with an optical-to-optical efficiency of 0.03. A Q -switched output energy of as much as 125 mJ at 6 Hz with a pulse width of 170 ns was obtained. Single-frequency, nearly transform-limited operation of the laser was achieved by injection seeding. Laser performance as a function of laser rod temperature and pump intensity was also investigated. The high power and high beam quality of this laser make it well suited for use as a coherent wind lidar transmitter on a space platform.

Ti:sapphire-pumped diamond Raman laser with sub-100-fs pulse duration.

PubMed

Murtagh, Michelle; Lin, Jipeng; Mildren, Richard P; Spence, David J

2014-05-15

We report a synchronously pumped femtosecond diamond Raman laser operating at 895 nm with a 33% slope efficiency. Pumped using a mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser at 800 nm with a duration of 170 fs, the bandwidth of the Stokes output is broadened and chirped to enable subsequent pulse compression to 95 fs using a prism pair. Modeling results indicate that self-phase modulation drives the broadening of the Stokes spectrum in this highly transient laser. Our results demonstrate the potential for Raman conversion to extend the wavelength coverage and pulse shorten Ti:sapphire lasers.

Luminescent light source for laser pumping and laser system containing same

DOEpatents

Hamil, Roy A.; Ashley, Carol S.; Brinker, C. Jeffrey; Reed, Scott; Walko, Robert J.

1994-01-01

The invention relates to a pumping lamp for use with lasers comprising a porous substrate loaded with a component capable of emitting light upon interaction of the component with exciting radiation and a source of exciting radiation. Preferably, the pumping lamp comprises a source of exciting radiation, such as an electron beam, and an aerogel or xerogel substrate loaded with a component capable of interacting with the exciting radiation, e.g., a phosphor, to produce light, e.g., visible light, of a suitable band width and of a sufficient intensity to generate a laser beam from a laser material.

A solar simulator-pumped atomic iodine laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. H.; Weaver, W. R.

1981-01-01

An atomic iodine laser, a candidate for the direct solar-pumped gas laser, was excited with a 4-kW beam from a xenon arc solar simulator. Continuous lasing at 1.315 micron for over 10 ms was obtained for static filling of n-C3F7I vapor. By momentarily flowing the lasant, a 30-Hz pulsed output was obtained for about 200 ms. The peak laser power observed was 4 W for which the system efficiency reached 0.1%. These results indicate that direct solar pumping of a gas laser for power conversion in space is indeed feasible.

A new efficient far-infrared optically pumped laser Gas - CH3(O-18)(H)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ioli, N.; Moretti, A.; Pereira, D.; Strumia, F.; Garelli, G.

1989-04-01

The (C-12)(H3)(O-18)(H) molecule has been investigated for new far-infrared laser lines by optically pumping it with a CW waveguide CO2 laser. The larger tunability (318 MHz) with respect to a conventional CO2 laser permits the pumping of many (C-12)(H3)(O-18)(H) lines. As a consequence 100 new laser lines have been discovered, ranging from 34.6 to 653.2-microns in wavelength. The infrared spectrum of (C-12)(H3)(O-18)(H) has been observed and all the fundamental vibration energies measured.

High-power and highly efficient diode-cladding-pumped holmium-doped fluoride fiber laser operating at 2.94 microm.

PubMed

Jackson, Stuart D

2009-08-01

A high-power diode-cladding-pumped Ho(3+), Pr(3+)-doped fluoride glass fiber laser is demonstrated. The laser produced a maximum output power of 2.5 W at a slope efficiency of 32% using diode lasers emitting at 1,150 nm. The long-emission wavelength of 2.94 microm measured at maximum pump power, which is particularly suited to medical applications, indicates that tailoring of the proportion of Pr(3+) ions can provide specific emission wavelengths while providing sufficient de-excitation of the lower laser level.

Laser and solar-photovoltaic space power systems comparison. II.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

De Young, R. J.; Stripling, J.; Enderson, T. M.; Humes, D. H.; Davis, W. T.

1984-01-01

A comparison of total system cost is made between solar photovoltaic and laser/receiver systems. The laser systems assume either a solar-pumped CO2 blackbody transfer laser with MHD receiver or a solar pumped liquid neodymium laser with a photovoltaic receiver. Total system costs are less for the laser systems below 300 km where drag is significant. System costs are highly dependent on altitude.

Mechanism for pumping lasers with squeezed light

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Haake, F.; Walls, D.F.; Collett, M.J.

1989-03-15

In this paper we demonstrate how the squeezed-pump-laser model of Marte and Walls (Phys. Rev. A 37, 1235 (1988)) may be realized in practice. We consider a three-level atomic medium interacting with two cavity modes pumped with squeezed light. We show that this pumping mechanism both achieves atomic inversion and squeezes the fluctuations on the lasing transition.

Laser-diode pumped dysprosium-doped lead thiogallate laser output wavelength temporal evolution and tuning possibilities at 4.3-4.7 um

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jelínková, Helena; Doroshenko, Maxim E.; Šulc, Jan; Němec, Michal; Jelínek, Michal; Osiko, Vjatcheslav V.; Badikov, Valerii V.; Badikov, Dmitri V.

2016-03-01

On the basis of our previous Dy3+:PbGa2S4 laser study, laser output wavelength temporal evolution as well as tuning possibilities in the range 4.3-4.7 μm were investigated. Active crystal was pumped by a fiber-coupled Brightlase Ultra- 50 diode laser (1.7 μm, max. power 7.5 W). Laser resonator was formed by flat dichroic pumping mirror (T = 70%@1.7 μm, R~100% @ 3.5 - 5 μm) and a concave (r = 200 mm) output coupler with R~99% @ 3.5 - 5 μm. The laser output wavelength dependence on the pump pulse duration and its evolution during the pulse was investigated first without any spectrally-selective element in the cavity. At pump pulse duration of 1 ms, generation just near Dy3+ fluorescence maximum of 4.35 μm has been observed. Prolongation of the pulse up to 5 ms led to similar lasing at 4.35 μm in the first millisecond, followed by simultaneous generation at 4.35 and 4.38 μm in the next millisecond, and further lasing at 4.6 μm till the end of the pump pulse. Increase of pump pulse duration up to 10 ms led to similar oscillation pulse development followed by generation at 4.6 μm only. Furthermore, output wavelength tuning using MgF2 birefringent filter as a cavity spectral selective element was investigated under 10 ms pumping. Almost continuous tuning without any significant dip has been observed within spectral range from 4.3 up to 4.7 μm. Due to practically closed cavity mean output power in the maximum of tuning curve was in the order of 400 μW.

Rigrod laser-pumped-laser resonator model: II. Application to thin and optically-dilute laser media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, D. C.

2014-08-01

In part I of this paper, and to set the foundation for this part II, we derived the resonator equations describing the normalized intensities, output power, gain, and extraction efficiency for a standard resonator incorporating two dielectric mirrors and a gain element. We then generalized the results to include an absorbing region representing a second laser crystal characterized by a small-signal transmission T0. Explicit expressions were found for the output power extracted into absorption by the second laser crystal and the extraction efficiency, and the limits to each were discussed. It was shown that efficient absorption by a thin or dilute second laser crystal can be realized in resonators in which the mirror reflectivities were high and in which the single-pass absorption was low, due to the finite photon lifetime and multi-passing of the absorbing laser element. In this paper, we apply the model derived in part I to thin or dilute laser materials, concentrating on a Yb, Er:glass intracavity pumped by a 946 nm Nd:YAG laser, a Yb, Er:glass laser-pumped intracavity by a 977 nm diode laser, and an Er:YAG laser-pumped intracavity to a 1530 nm diode laser. It is shown that efficient absorption can be obtained in all cases examined.

Mid-infrared optical parametric oscillator pumped by an amplified random fiber laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shang, Yaping; Shen, Meili; Wang, Peng; Li, Xiao; Xu, Xiaojun

2017-01-01

Recently, the concept of random fiber lasers has attracted a great deal of attention for its feature to generate incoherent light without a traditional laser resonator, which is free of mode competition and insure the stationary narrow-band continuous modeless spectrum. In this Letter, we reported the first, to the best of our knowledge, optical parametric oscillator (OPO) pumped by an amplified 1070 nm random fiber laser (RFL), in order to generate stationary mid-infrared (mid-IR) laser. The experiment realized a watt-level laser output in the mid-IR range and operated relatively stable. The use of the RFL seed source allowed us to take advantage of its respective stable time-domain characteristics. The beam profile, spectrum and time-domain properties of the signal light were measured to analyze the process of frequency down-conversion process under this new pumping condition. The results suggested that the near-infrared (near-IR) signal light `inherited' good beam performances from the pump light. Those would be benefit for further develop about optical parametric process based on different pumping circumstances.

Passive Q switching of a solar-pumped Nd:YAG laser.

PubMed

Lando, M; Shimony, Y; Noter, Y; Benmair, R M; Yogev, A

2000-04-20

Passive Q switching is a preferable choice for switching the Q factor of a solar-pumped laser because it requires neither a driver nor an electrical power supply. The superior thermal characteristics and durability of Cr(4+):YAG single crystals as passive Q switches for lamp and diode-pumped high-power lasers has been demonstrated. Here we report on an average power of 37 W and a switching efficiency of 80% obtained by use of a solar-pumped Nd:YAG laser Q switched by a Cr(4+):YAG saturable absorber. Concentration of the pumping solar energy on the laser crystal was obtained with a three-stage concentrator, composed of 12 heliostats, a three-dimensional compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) and a two-dimensional CPC. The water-cooled passive Q switch also served as the laser rear mirror. Repetition rates of as much as 50 kHz, at pulse durations between 190 and 310 ns (FWHM) were achieved. From the experimental results, the saturated single-pass power absorption of the Cr(4+):YAG device was estimated as 3 ? 1%.

Pump-induced phase aberrations in Yb3+-doped materials(Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keppler, Sebastian; Tamer, Issa; Hornung, Marco; Körner, Jörg; Liebetrau, Hartmut; Hein, Joachim; Kaluza, Malte C.

2017-05-01

Optical pumping of laser materials is an effective way to create a population inversion necessary for laser operation. However, a fraction of the pump energy is always transfered as heat into the laser material, which is mainly caused by the quantum defect. For Yb3+-doped materials, the small energy difference between the pump level and the laser level and the pumping with narrowband high-power laser diodes result in a quantum defect of approx. 9%, which is significantly lower compared to other dopants e.g. Ti3+ (33%) or Nd3+ (24%). Due to the low heat introduction, high optical-to-optical efficiency and high repetition rate laser systems based on diode-pumping are well-suited for a number of applications. Here, however, laser beam quality is of crucial importance. Phase distortions and beam profile modulations can lead to optical damages as well as a significant reduction of the focal spot intensity. Pump-induced phase aberrations are the main cause for phase distortions of the amplified laser beam. The heat transferred to the material causes a change of the refractive index (dn/dT), thermal expansion and stress within the laser material, eventually leading to spatial phase aberrations (also called `thermal lens'). However, the spatially dependent distribution of the population inversion itself also leads to spatial phase aberrations. Since electron excitation directly leads to a change in the charge distribution of the laser active ions, the dynamic response of the material to external fields changes. These electronic phase aberrations (also called `population lens') are described by a change in the polarizability of the material. Due to the low quantum defect of Yb3+-doped materials, this effect becomes more important. We show the first comprehensive spatio-temporal characterization of the pump-induced phase aberration including both effects. A high-resolution interference measurement was carried out with time steps of 50µs for times during the pump period and the cooling period between subsequent pump pulses. We found that both phase effects significantly contribute to the overall phase distortions. Since the temporal characteristic of the electronic phase depends on the fluorescence lifetime and the thermal phase on the thermal diffusivity, both phase effects could be distinguished by their different lifetimes. The measurements were carried out for Yb:YAG, Yb:CaF2 and Yb:glass, and are in excellent agreement to our detailed, COMSOL-based, spatio-temporal phase simulations. Since Yb:CaF2 and Yb:glass provide a negative dn/dT, the electronic phase change becomes even more important and, in case of Yb:CaF2, almost completely compensates the thermal phase imprint of a pump pulse during the time frame of laser pulse amplification.

Red laser-diode pumped 806 nm Tm3+: ZBLAN fibre laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Juárez-Hernández, M.; Mejía, E. B.

2017-06-01

A Tm3+-doped fluorozirconate (ZBLAN) fibre laser operating CW at 806 nm when diode-pumped at 687 nm is described for the first time. This device is based on the 3F4  →  3H6 transition, and is suitable for first telecom window and sensing applications. A slope efficiency of 50.3% and low threshold pump-power of 11.6 mW were obtained. Maximum output power of 15 mW for 40 mW coupled pump was achieved.

Direct diode-pumped Kerr-lens mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser

PubMed Central

Durfee, Charles G.; Storz, Tristan; Garlick, Jonathan; Hill, Steven; Squier, Jeff A.; Kirchner, Matthew; Taft, Greg; Shea, Kevin; Kapteyn, Henry; Murnane, Margaret; Backus, Sterling

2012-01-01

We describe a Ti:sapphire laser pumped directly with a pair of 1.2W 445nm laser diodes. With over 30mW average power at 800 nm and a measured pulsewidth of 15fs, Kerr-lens-modelocked pulses are available with dramatically decreased pump cost. We propose a simple model to explain the observed highly stable Kerr-lens modelocking in spite of the fact that both the mode-locked and continuous-wave modes are smaller than the pump mode in the crystal. PMID:22714433

Multipass pumped Nd-based thin-disk lasers: continuous-wave laser operation at 1.06 and 0.9 {mu}m with intracavity frequency doubling

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pavel, Nicolaie; Luenstedt, Kai; Petermann, Klaus

2007-12-01

The laser performances of the 1.06 {mu}m 4F3/2 --> 4I11/2 four-level transition and of the 0.9 {mu}m 4F3/2 --> I9/24 quasi-three-level transition were investigated using multipass pumped Nd-based media in thin-disk geometry. When pumping at 0.81 {mu}m into the 4F5/2 level, continuous-wave laser operation was obtained with powers in excess of 10 W at 1.06 {mu}m, in the multiwatt region at 0.91 {mu}m in Nd:YVO4 and Nd:GdVO4, and at 0.95 {mu}m in Nd:YAG. Intracavity frequency-doubled Nd:YVO4 thin-disk lasers with output powers of 6.4 W at 532 nm and of 1.6 W at 457 nm were realized at this pumping wavelength.more » The pumping at 0.88 {mu}m, which is directed into the 4F3/2 emitting level, was also employed, and Nd:YVO4 and Nd:GdVO4 thin-disk lasers with {approx}9 W output power at 1.06 {mu}m and visible laser radiation at 0.53 {mu}m with output power in excess of 4 W were realized. Frequency-doubled Nd:vanadate thin-disk lasers with deep blue emission at 0.46 {mu}m were obtained under pumping directly into the 4F3/2 emitting level.« less

High-efficiency diode-pumped actively Q-switched ceramic Nd:YAG/BaWO₄ Raman laser operating at 1666 nm.

PubMed

Zhang, H N; Chen, X H; Wang, Q P; Zhang, X Y; Chang, J; Gao, L; Shen, H B; Cong, Z H; Liu, Z J; Tao, X T; Li, P

2014-05-01

A diode-pumped actively Q-switched Raman laser employing BaWO4 as the Raman active medium and a ceramic Nd:YAG laser operating at 1444 nm as the pump source is demonstrated. The first-Stokes-Raman generation at 1666 nm is achieved. With a pump power of 20.3 W and pulse repetition frequency rate of 5 kHz, a maximum output power of 1.21 W is obtained, which is the highest output power for a 1.6 μm Raman laser. The corresponding optical-to-optical conversion efficiency is 6%; the pulse energy and peak power are 242 μJ and 8.96 kW, respectively.

Highly efficient end-side-pumped Nd:YAG solar laser by a heliostat-parabolic mirror system.

PubMed

Almeida, J; Liang, D; Vistas, C R; Guillot, E

2015-03-10

We report a large improvement in the collection and slope efficiency of an Nd:YAG solar laser pumped by a heliostat-parabolic mirror system. A conical fused silica lens was used to further concentrate the solar radiation from the focal zone of a 2 m diameter primary concentrator to a Nd:YAG single-crystal rod within a conical pump cavity, which enabled multipass pumping to the active medium. A 56 W cw laser power was measured, corresponding to 21.1  W/m2 record-high solar laser collection efficiency with the heliostat-parabolic mirror system. 4.9% slope efficiency was calculated, corresponding to 175% enhancement over our previous result.

Scalable pumping approach for extracting the maximum TEM(00) solar laser power.

PubMed

Liang, Dawei; Almeida, Joana; Vistas, Cláudia R

2014-10-20

A scalable TEM(00) solar laser pumping approach is composed of four pairs of first-stage Fresnel lens-folding mirror collectors, four fused-silica secondary concentrators with light guides of rectangular cross-section for radiation homogenization, four hollow two-dimensional compound parabolic concentrators for further concentration of uniform radiations from the light guides to a 3 mm diameter, 76 mm length Nd:YAG rod within four V-shaped pumping cavities. An asymmetric resonator ensures an efficient large-mode matching between pump light and oscillating laser light. Laser power of 59.1 W TEM(00) is calculated by ZEMAX and LASCAD numerical analysis, revealing 20 times improvement in brightness figure of merit.

Theoretical modeling of diode-laser-pumped 3-μm Er3+ crystal lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tikerpae, Mark; Jackson, Stuart D.; King, Terence A.

1997-05-01

We present results from a theoretical model that has been developed to simulate the 3-micrometer laser transition in Er3+ doped Y3Al5O12 (YAG), Y2Sc2Ga3O12 (YSGG), LiYF4 (YLF) and BaY2F8 (BaYF) host crystals. The rate equations for the lowest seven energy levels of Er3+ were solved numerically and laser action was simulated under cw, gain-switched (pulse pumped) and Q-switched operation with optical pumping at wavelengths of 975 nm and 795 nm. The relative performance of each laser crystal was compared under identical pumping and cavity conditions to establish the optimum crystal host, doping concentration and pump wavelength for each mode of operation. Some unexpected saturation effects were investigated that could limit the maximum practical pump fluence used for high energy Q-switched systems. We investigate possible additional multi-ion energy transfer processes that may cause the decrease in efficiency that is observed experimentally at high Er3+ ion concentrations. In addition, lower laser level deactivation by co-doping with Pr3+ in BaYF was simulated and compared with singly doped Er:BaYF for a range of Er3+ and Pr3+ concentrations. It was found that co-doping was not as effective as the cooperative upconversion process present in singly doped Er3+ crystals for efficient laser operation.

Compact intra-cavity frequency doubled line beam green laser by a laser diode array pumped

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Boxia; Qi, Yan; Wang, Yanwei

2016-10-01

Compact, high power, and low-cost green laser light sources are needed in projection-related applications such as digital cinema, rear-projection television, simulators, and command and control stations. We report a LD array directly pumped intracavity SHG Nd:YVO4/PPMgLN laser without lens or waveguide in this letter. A compact 3.12 W green laser was demonstrated by intra-cavity frequency doubled using a PPMgLN bulk crystal by a 19-emitter LD array pumped(single bar), the conversion efficiency from input LD array was 9.2%. A line-beam output suitable for laser projectors was generated, which has the potential to be scalable to small volumes and low costs for laser projection displays.

Systems efficiency and specific mass estimates for direct and indirect solar-pumped closed-cycle high-energy lasers in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Monson, D. J.

1978-01-01

Based on expected advances in technology, the maximum system efficiency and minimum specific mass have been calculated for closed-cycle CO and CO2 electric-discharge lasers (EDL's) and a direct solar-pumped laser in space. The efficiency calculations take into account losses from excitation gas heating, ducting frictional and turning losses, and the compressor efficiency. The mass calculations include the power source, radiator, compressor, fluids, ducting, laser channel, optics, and heat exchanger for all of the systems; and in addition the power conditioner for the EDL's and a focusing mirror for the solar-pumped laser. The results show the major component masses in each system, show which is the lightest system, and provide the necessary criteria for solar-pumped lasers to be lighter than the EDL's. Finally, the masses are compared with results from other studies for a closed-cycle CO2 gasdynamic laser (GDL) and the proposed microwave satellite solar power station (SSPS).

Compact diode-pumped continuous-wave and passively Q-switched Nd:GYSO laser at 1.07 μm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Zhi; Huang, Xiaoxu; Lan, Jinglong; Cui, Shengwei; Wang, Yi; Xu, Bin; Luo, Zhengqian; Xu, Huiying; Cai, Zhiping; Xu, Xiaodong; Zhang, Xiaoyan; Wang, Jun; Xu, Jun

2016-08-01

We report diode-pumped continuous-wave (CW) and Q-switched Nd:GYSO lasers using a compact two-mirror linear laser cavity. Single-wavelength laser emissions at 1074.11 nm with 4.1-W power and at 1058.27 nm with 1.47-W power have been obtained in CW mode. The slope efficiencies with respect to the absorbed pump powers are 48.5% and 22.9%, respectively. Wavelength tunability is also demonstrated with range of about 8 nm. Using a MoS2 saturable absorber, maximum average output power up to 410 mW at 1074 nm can be yielded with absorbed pump power 6.41 W and the maximum pulse energy reaches 1.20 μJ with pulse repetition rate of 342.5 kHz and shortest pulse width of 810 ns. The CW laser results represent the best laser performance and the Q-switching also present the highest output power for Q-switched Nd3+ lasers with MoS2 as saturable absorber.

Laser diode and pumped Cr:Yag passively Q-switched yellow-green laser at 543 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Y.; Ling, Zhao; Li, B.; Qu, D. P.; Zhou, K.; Zhang, Y. B.; Zhao, Y.; Zheng, Q.

2013-03-01

Efficient and compact yellow green pulsed laser output at 543 nm is generated by frequency doubling of a passively Q-switched end diode-pumped Nd:YVO4 laser at 1086 nm under the condition of sup-pressing the higher gain transition near 1064 nm. With 15 W of diode pump power and the frequency doubling crystal LBO, as high as 1.58 W output power at 543 nm is achieved. The optical to optical conversion efficiency from the corresponding Q-switched fundamental output to the yellow green output is 49%. The peak power of the Q-switched yellow green pulse laser is up to 30 kW with 5 ns pulse duration. The output power stability over 8 hours is better than 2.56% at the maximum output power. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest watt-level laser at 543 nm generated by frequency doubling of a passively Q-switched end diode pumped Nd:YVO4 laser at 1086 nm.

Power scaling of diode-pumped neodymium yttrium aluminum borate laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hemmati, Hamid

1991-01-01

Preliminary results are presented of the efficient diode-pumped operation of a neodymium yttrium aluminum borate (NYAB) laser at 531.5 nm using two 1-W diode-laser arrays for the pump. With 1380 mW of CW power incident on the crystal, as much as 51 mW of 532.5-nm laser radiation was obtained with the unoptimized cavity. The corresponding optical-to-optical conversion efficiency was 3.7 percent. A plot of the output 531.5 nm vs incident 807 nm pump power is shown. The crystal output power was critically dependent on the rotational and translational adjustment of the NYAB crystal inside the cavity. It is suggested that a crystal cut at the exact phase matching angle, placed in a cavity with proper optimal reflection and transmission mirror coatings, and pumped at proper wavelength can result in higher output power. Thus, the NYAB output power approaches that of a CW intracavity frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser.

Investigative study of a diode-pumped continuous-wave Tm:YAP laser as an efficient 1.94 μm pump source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwiatkowski, Jacek; Zendzian, Waldemar; Jabczynski, Jan K.

2016-12-01

A detailed study of a Tm:YAP laser in continuous-wave (CW), single-pass end-pumped by a 793 nm diode laser is presented. The laser based on c-cut 3 at. % Tm:YAP crystal was experimentally examined and presented in the dependence on transmittance and radius of curvature of output coupling mirrors. A detailed spectral analysis was presented. The influence of a heat-sink cooling water temperature on the laser performance was studied. At room temperature, for an output coupling transmission of 19.5%, the maximum CW output power of 4.53 W was achieved, corresponding to a slope efficiency of 41.5% and an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of 25.7% with respect to the incident pump power, respectively. We have shown that the output spectrum at a certain wavelength (e.g. 1940 nm) for a given pump power can be realized via the change of resonator parameters (OC transmittance, mode size).

Single-resonance optical pumping spectroscopy and application in dressed-state measurement with atomic vapor cell at room temperature.

PubMed

Liang, Qiangbing; Yang, Baodong; Zhang, Tiancai; Wang, Junmin

2010-06-21

By monitoring the transmission of probe laser beam (also served as coupling laser beam) which is locked to a cycling hyperfine transition of cesium D(2) line, while pumping laser is scanned across cesium D(1) or D(2) lines, the single-resonance optical pumping (SROP) spectra are obtained with atomic vapor cell. The SROP spectra indicate the variation of the zero-velocity atoms population of one hyperfine fold of ground state, which is optically pumped into another hyperfine fold of ground state by pumping laser. With the virtue of Doppler-free linewidth, high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), flat background and elimination of crossover resonance lines (CRLs), the SROP spectra with atomic vapor cell around room temperature can be employed to measure dressed-state splitting of ground state, which is normally detected with laser-cooled atomic sample only, even if the dressed-state splitting is much smaller than the Doppler-broaden linewidth at room temperature.

Excimer lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palmer, A. J.; Hess, L. D.; Stephens, R. R.; Pepper, D. M.

1977-01-01

The results of a two-year investigation into the possibility of developing continuous wave excimer lasers are reported. The program included the evaluation and selection of candidate molecular systems and discharge pumping techniques. The K Ar/K2 excimer dimer molecules and the xenon fluoride excimer molecule were selected for study; each used a transverse and capillary discharges pumping technique. Experimental and theoretical studies of each of the two discharge techniques applied to each of the two molecular systems are reported. Discharge stability and fluorine consumption were found to be the principle impediments to extending the XeF excimer laser into the continuous wave regime. Potassium vapor handling problems were the principal difficulty in achieving laser action on the K Ar/K2 system. Of the four molecular systems and pumping techniques explored, the capillary discharge pumped K Ar/K2 system appears to be the most likely candidate for demonstrating continuous wave excimer laser action primarily because of its predicted lower pumping threshold and a demonstrated discharge stability advantage.

Overview on new diode lasers for defense applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neukum, Joerg

2012-11-01

Diode lasers have a broad wavelength range, from the visible to beyond 2.2μm. This allows for various applications in the defense sector, ranging from classic pumping of DPSSL in range finders or target designators, up to pumping directed energy weapons in the 50+ kW range. Also direct diode applications for illumination above 1.55μm, or direct IR countermeasures are of interest. Here an overview is given on some new wavelengths and applications which are recently under discussion. In this overview the following aspects are reviewed: • High Power CW pumps at 808 / 880 / 940nm • Pumps for DPAL - Diode Pumped Alkali Lasers • High Power Diode Lasers in the range < 1.0 μm • Scalable Mini-Bar concept for high brightness fiber coupled modules • The Light Weight Fiber Coupled module based on the Mini-Bar concept Overall, High Power Diode Lasers offer many ways to be used in new applications in the defense market.

A new concept for solar pumped lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Christiansen, W. H.

1978-01-01

A new approach is proposed in which an intermediate body heated by sunlight is used as the pumping source for IR systems, i.e., concentration solar radiation is absorbed and reradiated via an intermediate blackbody. This body is heated by focused sunlight to a high temperature and its heat losses are engineered to be small. The cooled laser tube (or tubes) is placed within the cavity and is pumped by it. The advantage is that the radiation spectrum is like a blackbody at the intermediate temperature and the laser medium selectively absorbs this light. Focusing requirements, heat losses, and absorption bandwidths of laser media are examined, along with energy balance and potential efficiency. The results indicate that for lasers pumped through an IR absorption spectrum, the use of an intermediate blackbody offers substantial and important advantages. The loss in radiative intensity for optical pumping by a lower-temperature body is partly compensated by the increased solid angle of exposure to the radiative environment.

Tm:GGAG crystal for 2μm tunable diode-pumped laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Šulc, Jan; Boháček, Pavel; Němec, Michal; Fibrich, Martin; Jelínková, Helena; Trunda, Bohumil; Havlák, Lubomír.; Jurek, Karel; Nikl, Martin

2016-04-01

The spectroscopy properties and wavelength tunability of diode pumped laser based on Tm-doped mixed gadolinium-gallium-aluminium garnet Gd3(GaxAl1-x)5O12 (Tm:GGAG) single crystal were investigated for the first time. The crystal was grown by Czochralski method in a slightly oxidative atmosphere using an iridium crucible. The tested Tm:GGAG sample was cut from the grown crystal boule perpendicularly to growth direction (c-axis). The composition of sample was determined using electron microprobe X-ray elemental analysis. For spectroscopy and laser experiments 3.5mm thick plane-parallel face-polished plate (without AR coatings) with composition Gd2.76Tm0.0736Ga2.67Al2.50O12 (2.67 at.% Tm/Gd) was used. A fiber (core diameter 400 μm, NA= 0.22) coupled laser diode (emission wavelength 786 nm) was used for longitudinal Tm:GGAG pumping. The laser diode was operating in the pulsed regime (10 ms pulse length, 10 Hz repetition rate, maximum power amplitude 18 W). The 145mm long semi-hemispherical laser resonator consisted of a flat pumping mirror (HR @ 1.8- 2.10 μm, HT @ 0.78 μm) and curved (r = 150mm) output coupler with a reflectivity of » 97% @ 1.8- 2.10 µm. The maximum laser output power amplitude 1.14W was obtained at wavelength 2003nm for absorbed pump power amplitude 4.12W. The laser slope efficiency was 37% in respect to absorbed pumping power. Wavelength tuning was accomplished by using 2mm thick MgF2 birefringent filter placed inside the laser resonator at the Brewster angle. The laser was continuously tunable over 180nm in a spectral region from 1856nm to 2036 nm.

Continuously tunable solution-processed organic semiconductor DFB lasers pumped by laser diode.

PubMed

Klinkhammer, Sönke; Liu, Xin; Huska, Klaus; Shen, Yuxin; Vanderheiden, Sylvia; Valouch, Sebastian; Vannahme, Christoph; Bräse, Stefan; Mappes, Timo; Lemmer, Uli

2012-03-12

The fabrication and characterization of continuously tunable, solution-processed distributed feedback (DFB) lasers in the visible regime is reported. Continuous thin film thickness gradients were achieved by means of horizontal dipping of several conjugated polymer and blended small molecule solutions on cm-scale surface gratings of different periods. We report optically pumped continuously tunable laser emission of 13 nm in the blue, 16 nm in the green and 19 nm in the red spectral region on a single chip respectively. Tuning behavior can be described with the Bragg-equation and the measured thickness profile. The laser threshold is low enough that inexpensive laser diodes can be used as pump sources.

The HALNA project: Diode-pumped solid-state laser for inertial fusion energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kawashima, T.; Ikegawa, T.; Kawanaka, J.; Miyanaga, N.; Nakatsuka, M.; Izawa, Y.; Matsumoto, O.; Yasuhara, R.; Kurita, T.; Sekine, T.; Miyamoto, M.; Kan, H.; Furukawa, H.; Motokoshi, S.; Kanabe, T.

2006-06-01

High-enery, rep.-rated, diode-pumped solid-state laser (DPSSL) is one of leading candidates for inertial fusion energy driver (IFE) and related laser-driven high-field applications. The project for the development of IFE laser driver in Japan, HALNA (High Average-power Laser for Nuclear Fusion Application) at ILE, Osaka University, aims to demonstrate 100-J pulse energy at 10 Hz rep. rate with 5 times diffraction limited beam quality. In this article, the advanced solid-state laser technologies for one half scale of HALNA (50 J, 10 Hz) are presented including thermally managed slab amplifier of Nd:phosphate glass and zig-zag optical geometry, and uniform, large-area diode-pumping.

Development of a solid state laser of Nd:YLF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doamaralneto, R.

The CW laser action was obtained at room temperature of a Nd:YLF crystal in an astigmatically compensated cavity, pumped by an argon laser. This laser was completely projected, constructed and characterized in our laboratories. It initiates a broader project on laser development that will have several applications like nuclear fusion, industry, medicine, telemetry, etc. Throught the study of the optical properties of the Nd:YLF crystal, laser operation was predicted using a small volume gain medium on the mentioned cavity, pumped by an Ar 514,5 nm laser line. To obtain the laser action at polarizations sigma (1,053 (MU)m) and (PI) (1.047 (MU)m) an active medium was prepared which was a crystalline plate with a convenient crystallographic orientation. The laser characterization is in reasonable agreement with the initial predictions. For a 3.5% output mirror transmission, the oscillation threshold is about 0.15 W incident on the crystal, depending upon the sample used. For 1 W of incident pump light, the output power is estimated to be 12 mw, which corresponds to almost 1.5% slope efficiency. The versatile arrangement is applicable to almost all optically pumped solid state laser materials.

Single-mode, All-Solid-State Nd:YAG Laser Pumped UV Converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prasad, Narasimha S.; Armstrong, Darrell, J.; Edwards, William C.; Singh, Upendra N.

2008-01-01

In this paper, the status of a high-energy, all solid-state Nd:YAG laser pumped nonlinear optics based UV converter development is discussed. The high-energy UV transmitter technology is being developed for ozone sensing applications from space based platforms using differential lidar technique. The goal is to generate greater than 200 mJ/pulse with 10-50 Hz PRF at wavelengths of 308 nm and 320 nm. A diode-pumped, all-solid-state and single longitudinal mode Nd:YAG laser designed to provide conductively cooled operation at 1064 nm has been built and tested. Currently, this pump laser provides an output pulse energy of >1 J/pulse at 50 Hz PRF and a pulsewidth of 22 ns with an electrical-to-optical system efficiency of greater than 7% and a M(sup 2) value of <2. The single frequency UV converter arrangement basically consists of an IR Optical Parametric Oscillator (OPO) and a Sum Frequency Generator (SFG) setups that are pumped by 532 nm wavelength obtained via Second Harmonic Generation (SHG). In this paper, the operation of an inter cavity SFG with CW laser seeding scheme generating 320 nm wavelength is presented. Efforts are underway to improve conversion efficiency of this mJ class UV converter by modifying the spatial beam profile of the pump laser.

303 nm continuous wave ultraviolet laser generated by intracavity frequency-doubling of diode-pumped Pr3+:LiYF4 laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Pengfei; Zhang, Chaomin; Zhu, Kun; Ping, Yunxia; Song, Pei; Sun, Xiaohui; Wang, Fuxin; Yao, Yi

2018-03-01

We demonstrate an efficient and compact ultraviolet laser at 303 nm generated by intracavity frequency doubling of a continuous wave (CW) laser diode-pumped Pr3+:YLiF4 laser at 607 nm. A cesium lithium borate (CLBO) crystal, cut for critical type I phase matching at room temperature, is used for second-harmonic generation (SHG) of the fundamental laser. By using an InGaN laser diode array emitting at 444.3 nm with a maximum incident power of 10 W, as high as 68 mW of CW output power at 303 nm is achieved. The output power stability in 4 h is better than 2.85%. To the best of our knowledge, this is high efficient UV laser generated by frequency doubling of an InGaN laser diode array pumped Pr3+:YLiF4 laser.

Broadband multi-wavelength Brillouin lasers with an operating wavelength range of 1500–1600 nm generated by four-wave mixing in a dual wavelength Brillouin fiber laser cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Q.; Jia, Z. X.; Weng, H. Z.; Li, Z. R.; Yang, Y. D.; Xiao, J. L.; Chen, S. W.; Huang, Y. Z.; Qin, W. P.; Qin, G. S.

2018-05-01

We demonstrate broadband multi-wavelength Brillouin lasers with an operating wavelength range of 1500–1600 nm and a frequency separation of ~9.28 GHz generated by four-wave mixing in a dual wavelength Brillouin fiber laser cavity. By using one continuous-wave laser as the pump source, multi-wavelength Brillouin lasers with an operating wavelength range of 1554–1574 nm were generated via cascaded Brillouin scattering and four-wave mixing. Interestingly, when pumped by two continuous-wave lasers with an appropriate frequency separation, the operating wavelength range of the multi-wavelength Brillouin lasers was increased to 1500–1600 nm due to cavity-enhanced cascaded four-wave mixing among the frequency components generated by two pump lasers in the dual wavelength Brillouin laser cavity.

Proof of the Feasibility of Coherent and Incoherent Schemes for Pumping a Gamma-Ray Laser

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-12-31

Lasers - Donald Prosnitz 4.1.2 Millimeter and Submillimeter Lasers - Victor L Granatstein, Robert K. Parker, and Phillip A. Sprangle 4.2 X-Ray Lasers...Camacho SECTION 4: OTHER LASERS 4.1 Free-Electron Lasers .............................................. .. 515 William B. Colson and Donald Prosnitz 4.2...fluxes to pump the inversions, exceeding even those available from nuclear explosions , and to require neutron moderators having virtually infinite

Research on High-Intensity Picosecond Pump Laser in Short Pulse Optical Parametric Amplification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Xue; Peng, Yu-Jie; Wang, Jiang-Feng; Lu, Xing-Hua; Ouyang, Xiao-Ping; Chen, Jia-Lin; Jiang, You-En; Fan, Wei; Li, Xue-Chun

2013-01-01

A 527 nm pump laser generating 1.7 mJ energy with peak power of more than 0.12 GW is demonstrated. The theoretical simulation result shows that it has 106 gain in the picosecond-pump optical parametric chirped pulse amplification when the pump laser peak power is 0.1 GW and the intensity is more than 5 GW/cm2, and that it can limit the parametric fluorescence in the picosecond time scale of pump duration. The pump laser system adopts a master-oscillator power amplifier, which integrates a more than 30 pJ fiber-based oscillator with a 150 μJ regenerative amplifier and a relay-imaged four-pass diode-pump Nd glass amplifier to generate a 1 Hz top hat spatial beam and about 14 ps temporal Guassian pulse with <2% pulse-to-pulse energy stability. The output energy of the power amplifier is limited to 4 mJ for B-integral concern, and the frequency doubling efficiency can reach 65% with input intensity 10 GW/cm2.

Frequency agile optical parametric oscillator

DOEpatents

Velsko, Stephan P.

1998-01-01

The frequency agile OPO device converts a fixed wavelength pump laser beam to arbitrary wavelengths within a specified range with pulse to pulse agility, at a rate limited only by the repetition rate of the pump laser. Uses of this invention include Laser radar, LIDAR, active remote sensing of effluents/pollutants, environmental monitoring, antisensor lasers, and spectroscopy.

Polarization characteristics of Whispering-Gallery-Mode fiber lasers based on evanescent-wave-coupled gain.

PubMed

Zhang, Yuan-Xian; Pu, Xiao-Yun; Feng, Li; Han, De-Yu; Ren, Yi-Tao

2013-05-20

The polarization characteristics of Whispering-Gallery-Mode (WGM) fiber lasers based on evanescent-wave-coupled gain are investigated. For the laser gain is excited by side-pumping scheme, it is found that the polarization property of lasing emission is simply dependent on the polarized states of the pump beams. The polarization property of lasing emission depends on the propagating situation of the pump beams in an optical fiber if the laser gain is excited by evanescent-wave pumping scheme, that is, if the pump beams within the fiber are meridional beams, the lasing emission is a transverse electric (TE) wave that forms a special radial polarization emission. However, if the pump beams within the fiber are skew beams, both transverse magnetic (TM) and TE waves exist simultaneously in lasing emission that forms a special axially and radially mixed polarization emission. Pumped by skew beams, the wave-number differences between TE and TM waves are also investigated quantitatively, the results demonstrate that the wave-number difference decreases with the increase of the fiber diameter and the refractive index (RI) of the cladding solution. The observed polarization characteristics have been well explained based on lasing radiation mechanism of WGM fiber laser of gain coupled by evanescent wave.

Nuclear pumped lasers: Advantages of O2 (1 delta)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, J. J.

1979-01-01

Nuclear pumped laser technology was evaluated as a possible future weapons contender. It was determined that in order to become a primary weapon the following engineering problems must be solved: shielding, heat dissipation, high efficiency fixed focus pumping, good beam quality, and thermal blooming.

Mid-infrared 1  W hollow-core fiber gas laser source.

PubMed

Xu, Mengrong; Yu, Fei; Knight, Jonathan

2017-10-15

We report the characteristics of a 1 W hollow-core fiber gas laser emitting CW in the mid-IR. Our system is based on an acetylene-filled hollow-core optical fiber guiding with low losses at both the pump and laser wavelengths and operating in the single-pass amplified spontaneous emission regime. Through systematic characterization of the pump absorption and output power dependence on gas pressure, fiber length, and pump intensity, we determine that the reduction of pump absorption at high pump flux and the degradation of gain performance at high gas pressure necessitate the use of increased gain fiber length for efficient lasing at higher powers. Low fiber attenuation is therefore key to efficient high-power laser operation. We demonstrate 1.1 W output power at a 3.1 μm wavelength by using a high-power erbium-doped fiber amplifier pump in a single-pass configuration, approximately 400 times higher CW output power than in the ring cavity previously reported.

LD-pumped actively Q-switched c-cut Nd:GdVO4 self-Raman laser operating at 1166 and 1176 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Xinzhi; Zhang, Xihe; Li, Shutao; Dong, Yuan

2017-12-01

A laser diode pumped actively Q-switched c-cut Nd:GdVO4 self-Raman laser is experimentally investigated. Simultaneous pulse outputs at 1166 nm and 1176 nm corresponding to the Raman shifts of 807 and 882 cm-1 are acquired. At the pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of 20 kHz, the maximum output power is 103 mW at 1166 nm with the incident pump power of 2.31 W, while 1176 nm output power reaches 530 mW with the incident pump power of 4.11 W. The maximum output power of Raman laser is 570 mW with the incident pump power of 4.11 W and the PRF of 30 kHz. With the incident pump power of 3.67 W and the PRF of 30 kHz, the highest diode-to-Stokes optical conversion efficiency of 14.9% is obtained with the corresponding average output power of 547 mW.

Large-area high-power VCSEL pump arrays optimized for high-energy lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chad; Geske, Jonathan; Garrett, Henry; Cardellino, Terri; Talantov, Fedor; Berdin, Glen; Millenheft, David; Renner, Daniel; Klemer, Daniel

2012-06-01

Practical, large-area, high-power diode pumps for one micron (Nd, Yb) as well as eye-safer wavelengths (Er, Tm, Ho) are critical to the success of any high energy diode pumped solid state laser. Diode efficiency, brightness, availability and cost will determine how realizable a fielded high energy diode pumped solid state laser will be. 2-D Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL) arrays are uniquely positioned to meet these requirements because of their unique properties, such as low divergence circular output beams, reduced wavelength drift with temperature, scalability to large 2-D arrays through low-cost and high-volume semiconductor photolithographic processes, high reliability, no catastrophic optical damage failure, and radiation and vacuum operation tolerance. Data will be presented on the status of FLIR-EOC's VCSEL pump arrays. Analysis of the key aspects of electrical, thermal and mechanical design that are critical to the design of a VCSEL pump array to achieve high power efficient array performance will be presented.

Diode-pumped mode-locked femtosecond Tm:CLNGG disordered crystal laser.

PubMed

Ma, J; Xie, G Q; Gao, W L; Yuan, P; Qian, L J; Yu, H H; Zhang, H J; Wang, J Y

2012-04-15

A diode-end-pumped passively mode-locked femtosecond Tm-doped calcium lithium niobium gallium garnet (Tm:CLNGG) disordered crystal laser was demonstrated for the first time to our knowledge. With a 790 nm laser diode pumping, stable CW mode-locking operation was obtained by using a semiconductor saturable absorber mirror. The disordered crystal laser generated mode-locked pulses as short as 479 fs, with an average output power of 288 mW, and repetition rate of 99 MHz in 2 μm spectral region. © 2012 Optical Society of America

Low threshold diode-pumped picosecond mode-locked Nd:YAG laser with a semiconductor saturable absorber mirror

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eshghi, M. J.; Majdabadi, A.; Koohian, A.

2017-01-01

In this paper, a low threshold diode pumped passively mode-locked Nd:YAG laser has been demonstrated by using a semiconductor saturable absorber mirror. The threshold power for continuous-wave mode-locking is relatively low, about 3.2 W. The resonator stability across the pump power has been analytically examined. Moreover, the mode overlap between the pump beam and the laser fundamental mode has been simulated by MATLAB software. Adopting Z-shaped resonator configuration and suitable design of the resonator’s arm lengths, has enabled the author to prepare mode-locking conditions, and obtain 40 ps pulses with 112 MHz pulse repetition rate. The laser output was stable without any Q switched instability. To the best of our knowledge, this is the lowest threshold for CW mode-locking operation of a Nd:YAG laser.

Spatial Combining of Laser-Diode Beams for Pumping an NPRO

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gelsinger, Paul; Liu, Duncan; Mulder, Jerry; Aguayo, Francisco

2008-01-01

A free-space optical beam combiner now undergoing development makes it possible to use the outputs of multiple multimode laser diodes to pump a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) non-planar ring oscillator (NPRO) laser while ensuring that the laser operates at only a single desired frequency. Heretofore, a Nd:YAG NPRO like the present one has been pumped by a single multimode laser-diode beam delivered via an optical fiber. It would be desirable to use multiple pump laser diodes to increase reliability beyond that obtainable from a single pump laser diode. However, as explained in this article, simplistically coupling multiple multimode laser-diode beams through a fiber-optic combiner would entail a significant reduction in coupling efficiency, and lasing would occur at one or more other frequencies in addition to the single desired frequency. To minimize coupling loss, one must ensure that the NA (approximately equal to 0.3) of the combined laser-diode beams is less than the NA of the fiber. The A(Omega) of the laser-diode beam in the slow-axis plane is 1/1.3 as large as that of the fiber. This A(Omega) is small enough to enable efficient coupling of light into the optical fiber, but too large for combining of beams in the slow-axis plane. Therefore, a pair of cylindrical lenses is used to cancel the slow-axis plane magnification introduced by the on-cylindrical lenses used to effect magnification in the fast-axis plane.

Comparison of fiber lasers based on distributed side-coupled cladding-pumped fibers and double-cladding fibers.

PubMed

Huang, Zhihe; Cao, Jianqiu; Guo, Shaofeng; Chen, Jinbao; Xu, Xiaojun

2014-04-01

We compare both analytically and numerically the distributed side-coupled cladding-pumped (DSCCP) fiber lasers and double cladding fiber (DCF) lasers. We show that, through optimization of the coupling and absorbing coefficients, the optical-to-optical efficiency of DSCCP fiber lasers can be made as high as that of DCF lasers. At the same time, DSCCP fiber lasers are better than the DCF lasers in terms of thermal management.

High-energy high-efficiency Nd:YLF laser end-pump by 808 nm diode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Qinglei; Mo, Haiding; Zhao, Jay

2018-04-01

A model is developed to calculate the optimal pump position for end-pump configuration. The 808 nm wing pump is employed to spread the absorption inside the crystal. By the optimal laser cavity design, a high-energy high-efficiency Nd:YLF laser operating at 1053 nm is presented. In cw operation, a 13.6 W power is obtained with a slope efficiency of 51% with respect to 30 W incident pump power. The beam quality is near diffraction limited with M2 ∼ 1.02. In Q-switch operation, a pulse energy of 5 mJ is achieved with a peak power of 125 kW at 1 kHz repetition rate.

An efficient continuous-wave 591 nm light source based on sum-frequency mixing of a diode pumped Nd:GdVO4-Nd:CNGG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Y. D.; Liu, J. H.

2013-08-01

We report a laser architecture to obtain continuous-wave (CW) yellow-orange light sources at the 591 nm wavelength. An 808 nm diode pumped a Nd:GdVO4 crystal emitting at 1063 nm. A part of the pump power was then absorbed by the Nd:CNGG crystal. The remaining pump power was used to pump a Nd:CNGG crystal emitting at 1329 nm. Intracavity sum-frequency mixing at 1063 and 1329 nm was then realized in a LiB3O5 (LBO) crystal to reach the yellow-orange radiation. We obtained a CW output power of 494 mW at 591 nm with a pump laser diode emitting 17.8 W at 808 nm.

Fusion reactor pumped laser

DOEpatents

Jassby, D.L.

1987-09-04

A nuclear pumped laser capable of producing long pulses of very high power laser radiation is provided. A toroidal fusion reactor provides energetic neutrons which are slowed down by a moderator. The moderated neutrons are converted to energetic particles capable of pumping a lasing medium. The lasing medium is housed in an annular cell surrounding the reactor. The cell includes an annular reflecting mirror at the bottom and an annular output window at the top. A neutron reflector is disposed around the cell to reflect escaping neutrons back into the cell. The laser radiation from the annular window is focused onto a beam compactor which generates a single coherent output laser beam. 10 figs.

Fusion reactor pumped laser

DOEpatents

Jassby, Daniel L.

1988-01-01

A nuclear pumped laser capable of producing long pulses of very high power laser radiation is provided. A toroidal fusion reactor provides energetic neutrons which are slowed down by a moderator. The moderated neutrons are converted to energetic particles capable of pumping a lasing medium. The lasing medium is housed in an annular cell surrounding the reactor. The cell includes an annular reflecting mirror at the bottom and an annular output window at the top. A neutron reflector is disposed around the cell to reflect escaping neutrons back into the cell. The laser radiation from the annular window is focused onto a beam compactor which generates a single coherent output laser beam.

Controlling nanoscale acoustic strains in silicon using chirped femtosecond laser pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tzianaki, E.; Bakarezos, M.; Tsibidis, G. D.; Petrakis, S.; Loukakos, P. A.; Kosmidis, C.; Tatarakis, M.; Papadogiannis, N. A.

2016-06-01

The influence of femtosecond laser pulse chirp on laser-generated longitudinal acoustic strains in Si (100) monocrystal substrates is studied. Degenerate femtosecond pump-probe transient reflectivity measurements are performed using a layered structure of thin Ti transducer film on an Si substrate. Experimental results show that acoustic strains, manifested as strong Brillouin oscillations, are more effectively induced when negatively chirped femtosecond laser pulses pump the transducer. These results are theoretically supported by a modified thermo-mechanical model based on the combination of a revised two-temperature model and elasticity theory that takes into account the instantaneous frequency of the chirped femtosecond laser pump pulses.

Solar-pumped 80 W laser irradiated by a Fresnel lens.

PubMed

Ohkubo, Tomomasa; Yabe, Takashi; Yoshida, Kunio; Uchida, Shigeaki; Funatsu, Takayuki; Bagheri, Behgol; Oishi, Takehiro; Daito, Kazuya; Ishioka, Manabu; Nakayama, Yuichirou; Yasunaga, Norihito; Kido, Kouichirou; Sato, Yuji; Baasandash, Choijil; Kato, Kiyoshi; Yanagitani, Takagimi; Okamoto, Yoshiaki

2009-01-15

A solar-pumped 100 W class laser that features high efficiency and low cost owing to the use of a Fresnel lens and a chromium codoped neodymium YAG ceramic laser medium was developed. A laser output of about 80 W was achieved with combination of a 4 m(2) Fresnel lens and a pumping cavity as a secondary power concentrator. This output corresponds to 4.3% of conversion efficiency from solar power into laser, and the maximum output from a unit area of Fresnel lens was 20 W/m(2), which is 2.8 times larger than previous results with mirror-type concentrator.

Diode-pumped Nd:GAGG-LBO laser at 531 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zou, J.; Chu, H.; Wang, L. R.

2012-03-01

We report a green laser at 531 nm generation by intracavity frequency doubling of a continuous wave (cw) laser operation of a 1062 nm Nd:GAGG laser under in-band diode pumping at 808 nm. A LiB3O5 (LBO) crystal, cut for critical type I phase matching at room temperature is used for second harmonic generation of the laser. At an incident pump power of 18.5 W, as high as 933 mW of cw output power at 531 nm is achieved. The fluctuation of the green output power was better than 3.5% in the given 4 h.

Pump-Induced, Dual-Frequency Switching in a Short-Cavity, Ytterbium-Doped Fiber Laser

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guan, W.; Marciante, J.R.

2008-07-23

Using a short linear cavity composed of a section of highly ytterbium-doped fiber surrounded by two fiber Bragg gratings, dual frequency switching is achieved by tuning the pump power of the laser. The dual-frequency switching is generated by the thermal effects of the absorbed pump in the ytterbium-doped fiber. At each frequency, the laser shows single-longitudinal-mode behavior. In each single-mode regime, the optical signal-to-noise ratio of the laser is greater than 50 dB. The dual-frequency, switchable, fiber laser can be designed for various applications by the careful selection of the two gratings.

Pump-probe imaging of laser-induced periodic surface structures after ultrafast irradiation of Si

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Murphy, Ryan D.; Torralva, Ben; Adams, David P.

2013-09-30

Ultrafast pump-probe microscopy has been used to investigate laser-induced periodic surface structure (LIPSS) formation on polished Si surfaces. A crater forms on the surface after irradiation by a 150 fs laser pulse, and a second, subsequent pulse forms LIPSS within the crater. Sequentially delayed images show that LIPSS with a periodicity slightly less than the fundamental laser wavelength of 780 nm appear on Si surfaces ∼50 ps after arrival of the second pump laser pulse, well after the onset of melting. LIPSS are observed on the same timescale as material removal, suggesting that their formation involves material ejection.

Development of a compact vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser end-pumped actively Q-switched laser for laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Shuo; Chen, Rongzhang; Nelsen, Bryan

2016-03-15

This paper reports the development of a compact and portable actively Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and its applications in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). The laser was end-pumped by a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL). The cavity lases at a wavelength of 1064 nm and produced pulses of 16 ns with a maximum pulse energy of 12.9 mJ. The laser exhibits a reliable performance in terms of pulse-to-pulse stability and timing jitter. The LIBS experiments were carried out using this laser on NIST standard alloy samples. Shot-to-shot LIBS signal stability, crater profile, time evolution of emission spectra, plasma electron density and temperature, andmore » limits of detection were studied and reported in this paper. The test results demonstrate that the VCSEL-pumped solid-state laser is an effective and compact laser tool for laser remote sensing applications.« less

Low-threshold, CW, all-solid-state Ti:Al2O3 laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harrison, James; Finch, Andrew; Rines, David M.; Rines, Glen A.; Moulton, Peter F.

1991-01-01

A CW Ti:Al2O3 ring laser with a threshold power of 119 mW is demonstrated. It provides a tunable source of single-frequency, diffraction-limited radiation that is suitable for injection seeding. The Ti:Al2O3 laser is operated with a diode-laser-pumped, frequency-doubled, Nd:YAG laser as the sole pump source.

Low-NA fiber laser pumps powered by high-brightness single emitters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yanson, Dan; Levy, Moshe; Peleg, Ophir; Rappaport, Noam; Shamay, Moshe; Dahan, Nir; Klumel, Genady; Berk, Yuri; Baskin, Ilya

2015-03-01

Fiber laser manufacturers demand high-brightness laser diode pumps delivering optical pump energy in both a compact fiber core and narrow angular content. A pump delivery fiber of a 105 μm core and 0.22 numerical aperture (NA) is typically used, where the fiber NA is under-filled to ease the launch of laser diode emission into the fiber and make the fiber tolerant to bending. At SCD, we have developed high-brightness NEON multi-emitter fiber-coupled pump modules that deliver 50 W output from a 105 μm, 0.15 NA fiber enabling low-NA power delivery to a customer's fiber laser network. Brightness-enhanced single emitters are engineered with ultra-low divergence for compatibility with the low-NA delivery fiber, with the latest emitters delivering 14 W with 95% of the slow-axis energy contained within an NA of 0.09. The reduced slow-axis divergence is achieved with an optimized epitaxial design, where the peak optical intensity is reduced to both lessen filamentation within the laser cavity and reduce the power density on the output facet thus increasing the emitter reliability. The low mode filling of the fiber allows it to be coiled with diameters down to 70 mm at full operating power despite the small NA and further eliminates the need for mode-stripping at fiber combiners and splices downstream from our pump modules. 50W fiber pump products at 915, 950 and 975 nm wavelengths are presented, including a wavelengthstabilized version at 976 nm.

DPSSL pumped 20-TW Ti:sapphire laser system for DD fusion experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sekine, T.; Hatano, Y.; Takeuchi, Y.; Kawashima, T.

2016-03-01

A diode-pumped solid-state laser (DPSSL) pumped 20-TW output Ti:sapphire laser system has been developed. A diode-pumped Nd:glass laser with output energy of 12.7 J in 527 nm was used as a pump source for a 20-TW Ti:sapphire amplifier. A CeLiB6O10 nonlinear optical crystal was used as a frequency doubler of the Nd:glass DPSSL[1]. Figure 1 shows typical output pulse energy of the 20-TW amplifier as a function of pumping energy and a near field pattern. A 1.65 J pulse energy was obtained by 4.5 J pump energy. The amplified seed pulse is compressed to typically 60 fs as shown in Fig. 1 by a vacuumed pulse compressor with 80% of transmissivity. Encircled energy ratio, into a circled with 8 μm diameter area, of far field pattern focused by off-axis parabolic mirror with F# of 3 is numerically evaluated to 40% at TW class output condition. Then focal intensity would reach to 1018W/cm2. This all- DPSSL system contributes for stable and continual investigation of laser induced plasma experiment. We have succeeded continual and high efficient generation of DD fusion neutron from CD nano-particles by cluster fusion scheme using the 20-TW laser. A yield of ∼105 neutrons per shot was stably observed during continuous 100 shots with repetition rate of 0.1Hz.

High power (2+1) ×1 taper-fused all-fiber side-pumped combiner

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Juan; Ma, Yi; Yan, Hong

2018-03-01

A novel design and fabrication method of a (2+1) ×1 taper-fused all-fiber side-pumped combiner is reported. The pump coupling efficiency of this pump combiner was studied theoretically and experimentally. The measurement results indicated that the coupling efficiency of the pump light is 96.5%, the signal-to-pump isolation reaches 31dB, and the signal loss of the combiner is 0.19dB. A backward-pumped fiber laser system was established by using this (2+1) ×1 side-pumped combiner directly, achieving a signal laser output of 1007W with M2=1.33.

All-solid-state cw frequency-doubling Nd:YLiF4/LBO blue laser with 4.33 W output power at 454 nm under in-band diode pumping at 880 nm.

PubMed

Lü, Yanfei; Zhang, Xihe; Cheng, Weibo; Xia, Jing

2010-07-20

We generated efficient blue laser output at 454 nm by intracavity frequency doubling of a continuous-wave (cw) diode-pumped Nd:YLiF(4) (Nd:YLF) laser at 908 nm based on the (4)F(3/2)-(4)I(9/2) transition. With 32.8 W of incident pump power at 880 nm and the frequency-doubling crystal LiB(3)O(5), a level as high as 4.33 W of cw output power at 454 nm is achieved, corresponding to an optical conversion efficiency of 13.2% with respect to the incident pump power. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first blue laser at 454 nm generated by intracavity frequency doubling of a diode-pumped Nd:YLF.

Passively Q-switched side pumped monolithic ring laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Steven X. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for generating a side-pumped passively Q-switched non-planar ring oscillator. The method introduces a laser into a cavity of a crystal, the cavity having a round-trip path formed by a reflection at a dielectrically coated front surface, a first internal reflection at a first side surface of the crystal at a non-orthogonal angle with the front, a second internal reflection at a top surface of the crystal, and a third internal reflection at a second side surface of the crystal at a non-orthogonal angle with the front. The method side pumps the laser at the top or bottom surface with a side pump diode array beam and generates an output laser emanating at a location on the front surface. The design can include additional internal reflections to increase interaction with the side pump. Waste heat may be removed by mounting the crystal to a heatsink.

Theoretical and experimental study on reabsorption effect and temperature characteristic of a quasi-three-level 946nm Nd:YAG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Jing; Wan, Yuan; Chen, Weibiao

2015-02-01

The influence of temperature and incident pump power on reabsorption loss is theoretically discussed. Temperature characteristic and reabsorption loss rate of a diode-pumped quasi-three-level 946 nm Nd:YAG laser are investigated. Reabsorption effect has a significant impact on laser performance. The results indicate that reabsorption loss increases as the working temperature rises and decreases with the increased incident pump power.

An experimental investigation of (UF-235)6 fission nuclear-pumped lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miley, G. H.

1979-01-01

A UF6 handling system was designed for use in conjunction with the existing nuclear-pumped laser vacuum system at a nuclear reactor laboratory to perform the experiments described above. A modification to separate the gas fill system from the vacuum system and thus greatly reduce its volume is described as well as operating procedures for the first controlled nuclear pumping experiments with UF6 vapor contained in the laser cell.

Exploding conducting film laser pumping apparatus

DOEpatents

Ware, K.D.; Jones, C.R.

1984-04-27

The 342-nm molecular iodine and the 1.315-..mu..m atomic iodine lasers have been optically pumped by intense light from exploding-metal-film discharges. Brightness temperatures for the exploding-film discharges were approximately 25,000 K. Although lower output energies were achieved for such discharges when compared to exploding-wire techniques, the larger surface area and smaller inductance inherent in the exploding-film should lead to improved efficiency for optically-pumped gas lasers.

Broadband laser amplifier based on gas-phase dimer molecules pumped by the Sun.

PubMed

Pe'er, I; Vishnevitsky, I; Naftali, N; Yogev, A

2001-09-01

We report the design and experimental realization of a solar-pumped dimer gas-laser amplifier. The amplifying medium is Te(2) gas, which is capable of amplifying laser signals over a broad spectral range. A gain of 42% was measured at a wavelength of 632.8 nm. We also present studies of the material characteristics and a brief review of the study of other candidate materials for solar pumping.

CW molecular iodine laser pumped with a low power DPSSL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luhs, W.; Wellegehausen, B.; Goyal, M.

2017-04-01

Cw oscillation of molecular iodine on many lines in the range of 557-802 nm pumped with a low power common diode pumped and frequency doubled solid state laser DPSSL is reported. The DPSSL is temperature stabilized, operates in single frequency and can be tuned by about 2 nm at 532 nm. Operation conditions of this simple and low cost iodine ring laser will be described and possible applications will be discussed.

CF.sub.4 laser

DOEpatents

Wittig, Curt; Tiee, Joe J.

1979-01-01

A CF.sub.4 laser for producing near 16 .mu.m radiation utilizing a line tunable CO.sub.2 laser as an optical pumping source. The device uses a cryogenically cooled optically pumped cell containing molecular CF.sub.4 gas. An optical resonant cavity formed around the optically pumped cell induces oscillations of near 16 .mu.m radiation from the .nu..sub.2 +.nu..sub.4 .fwdarw..nu..sub.2 transition in the molecular CF.sub.4 gas.

Laser Space Propulsion Overview (Preprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-08-22

thruster technology. However, a laser-ablation propulsion engine using a set of diode-pumped glass fiber amplifiers with a total of 350-W optical power...achieved Isp = 3660s with Cm = 56µN/W and ηAB = 100%. These two units will be combined in a single device using low-mass diode-pumped glass fiber...diode-pumped glass fiber lasers onboard the spacecraft to provide thrust with variable Isp and unmatched thrust efficiency deriving from exothermic

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chicklis, E.P.; Folweiler, R.C.; Pollak, T.M.

This is a combined study of resonant pumped solid state lasers as fusion drivers, and the development of crystalline optical materials suitable for propagation of the high peak powers associated with laser fusion research. During this period of study the concept of rare gas halide lasers was first demonstrated by the lasing of Tm:YLF at 453 nm pumped by the 353 nm energy of XeF. Excited stata densities of 5 x 10/sup 18/ cm/sup -3/ have been attained and spectroscopic measurements show that up to 60% of the pump energy can be converted into useful stored energy. Alternative lasers andmore » pumping schemes are also discussed. In all cases the potential RGH/SS systems are evaluated in respect to internal efficiency and heat loading.« less

The 1.083 micron tunable CW semiconductor laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, C. S.; Chen, Jan-Shin; Lu, Ken-Gen; Ouyang, Keng

1991-01-01

A tunable CW laser is desired to produce light equivalent to the helium spectral line at 1.08 microns. This laser will serve as an optical pumping source for He-3 and He-4 atoms used in space magnetometers. This light source can be fabricated either as a semiconductor laser diode or a pumped solid state laser. Continuous output power of greater than 10 mW is desired. Semiconductor lasers can be thermally tuned, but must be capable of locking onto the helium resonance lines. Solid state lasers must have efficient pumping sources suitable for space configuration. Additional requirements are as follows: space magnetometer applications will include low mass (less than 0.5 kg), low power consumption (less than 0.75 W), and high stability/reliability for long missions (5-10 years).

A 1J LD pumped Nd:YAG pulsed laser system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yi, Xue-bin; Wang, Bin; Yang, Feng; Li, Jing; Liu, Ya-Ping; Li, Hui-Jun; Wang, Yu; Chen, Ren

2017-11-01

A 1J LD pumped Nd;YAG pulsed laser was designed. The laser uses an oscillation and two-staged amplification structure, and applies diode bar integrated array as side-pump. The TEC temperature control device combing liquid cooling system is organized to control the temperature of the laser system. This study also analyzed the theoretical threshold of working material, the effect of thermal lens and the basic principle of laser amplification. The results showed that the laser system can achieve 1J, 25Hz pulse laser output, and the laser pulse can be output at two width: 6-7ns and 10ns, respectively, and the original beam angle is 1.2mrad. The laser system is characterized by small size, light weight, as well as good stability, which make it being applied in varied fields such as photovoltaic radar platform and etc

Power scaling of laser diode pumped Pr3+:LiYF4 cw lasers: efficient laser operation at 522.6 nm, 545.9 nm, 607.2 nm, and 639.5 nm.

PubMed

Gün, Teoman; Metz, Philip; Huber, Günter

2011-03-15

We report efficient cw laser operation of laser diode pumped Pr(3+)-doped LiYF4 crystals in the visible spectral region. Using two InGaN laser diodes emitting at λ(P)=443.9 nm with maximum output power of 1 W each and a 2.9-mm-long crystal with a doping concentration of 0.5%, output powers of 938 mW, 418 mW, 384 mW, and 773 mW were achieved for the laser wavelengths 639.5 nm, 607.2 nm, 545.9 nm, and 522.6 nm, respectively. The maximum absorbed pump powers were approximately 1.5 W, resulting in slope efficiencies of 63.6%, 32.0%, 52.1%, and 61.5%, as well as electro-optical efficiencies of 9.4%, 4.2%, 3.8%, and 7.7%, respectively. Within these experiments, laser diode-pumped laser action at 545.9 nm was demonstrated for what is believed to be the first time.

Laser diode pumped, erbium-doped, solid state laser with high slope efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Esterowitz, Leon; Allen, R.; Kintz, G.

1989-10-01

A laser and method for producing a laser emission at a wavelength of substantially 2.8 microns is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the laser comprises laser diode means for emitting a pump beam at a preselected wavelength; and a crystal having a preselected host material doped with a predetermined percent concentration of erbium activator ions sufficient to produce a laser emission at substantially 2.8 microns at a slope efficiency of at least 5 percent, but preferrably 10 percent, when the crystal is pumped by the pump beam. It is well known that the human body is comprised of approximately 70 percent water, with various human tissues containing about 60 to 90 percent of water, and bone and cartilage containing about 30 to 40 percent of water. Since the 2.8 micron wavelength has a substantially maximum absorption in water, this 2.8 micron wavelength is the ideal wavelength to use for a large variety of medical laser applications on the human body. A 2.8 micron wavelength laser could be used for precise surgery in such exemplary applications as brain surgery, neurosurgery, eye surgery, plastic surgery, burn treatment, and the removal of malignancies.

OPO performance with a long pulse length, single frequency Nd:YAG laser pump. [Optical Parametric Oscillators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kozlovsky, W. J.; Gustafson, E. K.; Eckardt, R. C.; Byer, R. L.

1988-01-01

With the advent of new nonlinear materials and single-frequency pump sources, there is renewed interest in optical parametric oscillators (OPOs). A single-mode diode-laser-pumped monolithic Nd:YAG nonplanar ring laser that is both amplified and frequency doubled is used to pump a monolithic MgO:LiNbO3 pulsed singly resonant OPO. The OPO signal output was temperature tuned from 834 to 958 nm, producing an idler tuning from 1.47 to 1.2 microns. Efforts toward a CW all-solid-state doubly resonant OPO are also described.

Resonantly pumped high efficiency Ho:YAG laser.

PubMed

Shen, Ying-Jie; Yao, Bao-Quan; Duan, Xiao-Ming; Dai, Tong-Yu; Ju, You-Lun; Wang, Yue-Zhu

2012-11-20

High-efficient CW and Q-switched Ho:YAG lasers resonantly dual-end-pumped by two diode-pumped Tm:YLF lasers at 1908 nm were investigated. A maximum slope efficiency of 74.8% in CW operation as well as a maximum output power of 58.7 W at 83.2 W incident pump power was achieved, which corresponded to an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of 70.6%. The maximum pulse energy of 2.94 mJ was achieved, with a 31 ns FWHM pulse width and a peak power of approximately 94.7 kW.

Resonantly pumped single-mode channel waveguide Er:YAG laser with nearly quantum defect limited efficiency.

PubMed

Ter-Gabrielyan, N; Fromzel, V; Mu, X; Meissner, H; Dubinskii, M

2013-07-15

We demonstrated the continuous-wave operation of a resonantly pumped Er:YAG single-mode channel waveguide laser with diffraction-limited output and nearly quantum defect limited efficiency. Using a longitudinally core-pumped, nearly square (61.2 μm×61.6 μm) Er3+:YAG waveguide embedded in an undoped YAG cladding, an output power of 9.1 W with a slope efficiency of 92.8% (versus absorbed pump power) has been obtained. To the best of our knowledge, this optical-to-optical efficiency is the highest ever demonstrated for a channel waveguide laser.

Collisional Quenching of No A2sigma+(nu’= 0) Between 125 and 294 (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-05-28

using an oil-free pumping system consisting of a turbomolecular pump backed by a dry scroll pump . The measured leak rate of the cell was less than 10...mode-locked laser producing pulses of approximately 100 ps duration, was used to pump a DFDL, a side- pumped dye amplifier, and an end- pumped dye...conditions, the calibrated pressure Vacuum C N2 Laser PMTMono L2 L3 Cryostat W1 W2 L1 L1 Ap ND FIG. 1. Experimental arrangement with section detail of cryostat

Diode pumped tunable lasers based on Tm:CaF2 and Tm:Ho:CaF2 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Šulc, Jan; Němec, Michal; Jelinková, Helena; Doroshenko, Maxim E.; Fedorov, Pavel P.; Osiko, Vyacheslav V.

2014-02-01

The Tm:CaF2 (4% of TmF3) and Tm:Ho:CaF2 (2% of TmF3, 0.3% of HoF3) ceramics, prepared using hot pressing, and hot formation technique had been used as an active medium of diode pumped mid-infrared tunable laser. A fibre (core diameter 400 μm, NA = 0.22) coupled laser diode (LIMO, HLU30F400-790) was used to longitudinal pumping. The laser diode was operating in the pulsed regime (6 ms pulse length, 10 Hz repetition rate). The duty-cycle 6% ensures a low thermal load even under the maximum diode pumping power amplitude 25W (ceramics samples were only air-cooled). The laser diode emission wavelength was 786 nm. The 80mm long semi-hemispherical laser resonator consisted of a flat pumping mirror (HR @ 1.85 - 2.15 μm, HT @ 0.78 μm) and a curved (r = 150mm) output coupler with a reflectivity of ˜ 98% @ 1.85 - 2.0 μm for Tm:CaF2 laser or ˜ 99.5% @ 2.0 - 2.15 μm for Ho:Tm:CaF2. Tuning of the laser was accomplished by using a birefringent filter (single 1.5mm thick quartz plate) placed inside the optical resonator at the Brewster angle. Both samples offered broad and smooth tuning possibilities in mid-IR spectral range and the lasers were continuously tunable over ˜ 100 nm. The obtained Tm:CaF2 tunability ranged from 1892 to 1992nm (the maximum output energy 1.8mJ was reached at 1952nm for absorbed pumping energy 78 mJ). In case of Tm:Ho:CaF2 laser tunability from 2016 to 2111nm was reached (the maximum output energy 1.5mJ was reached at 2083nm for absorbed pumping energy 53 mJ). Both these material are good candidates for a future investigation of high energy, ultra-short, laser pulse generation.

High efficient bone ablation with diode pumped Erbium and Thulium lasers including different delivery fibers: a comparative in vitro study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, Karl; Hausladen, Florian; Stegmayer, Thomas; Wurm, Holger

2018-02-01

Er:YAG lasers (3μm) allow efficient bone ablation caused by the strong absorption in water. Unfortunately, there are only a few and comparable expensive fiber materials for this wavelength available which are suitable for high laser power. The bone ablation efficiency of the Tm:YAG laser is minor (2μm) but inexpensive silica fibers can be used. The aim of this study was to investigate the bone ablation, using novel diode pumped high power Er:YAG (laser power 40W) and Tm:YAG laser system (60W) and adaptive fiber delivery systems. Expected advantage of these lasers is the longer lifetime of the fibers because of the high repetition rate and low pulse energy compared to the flash lamp pumped laser systems. The bare fiber output ends of a sapphire fiber (Er:YAG laser) and of a silica fiber (Tm:YAG laser) were attached under water and a water filled container including the fixed sample (bovine bone slices) was moved by a computer controlled translation stage. In a second set-up we provided a focusing unit and appropriate water spray unit. The generated cut kerfs were analyzed by light microcopy and laser scanning microscopy. The results show that with the diode pumped Er:YAG laser and sapphire fiber a particular high efficient bone ablation (> 0.16mm2/J) is possible both with bare fiber under water and focusing unit with water spray. The higher power of the Tm:YAG laser also results in high ablation rates but causes enlarged thermal damages. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that efficient bone ablation is possible with both diode pumped laser systems. In terms of efficiency the Er:YAG laser is outstanding. The Tm:YAG laser also allows fast bone ablation, provided that the thermal impact is limited by effective cooling and high movement velocity of the laser spot, for example by using an automatic scanner.

Frequency agile optical parametric oscillator

DOEpatents

Velsko, S.P.

1998-11-24

The frequency agile OPO device converts a fixed wavelength pump laser beam to arbitrary wavelengths within a specified range with pulse to pulse agility, at a rate limited only by the repetition rate of the pump laser. Uses of this invention include Laser radar, LIDAR, active remote sensing of effluents/pollutants, environmental monitoring, antisensor lasers, and spectroscopy. 14 figs.

A single-frequency double-pulse Ho:YLF laser for CO2-lidar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kucirek, P.; Meissner, A.; Eiselt, P.; Höfer, M.; Hoffmann, D.

2016-03-01

A single-frequency q-switched Ho:YLF laser oscillator with a bow-tie ring resonator, specifically designed for highspectral stability, is reported. It is pumped with a dedicated Tm:YLF laser at 1.9 μm. The ramp-and-fire method with a DFB-diode laser as a reference is employed for generating single-frequency emission at 2051 nm. The laser is tested with different operating modes, including cw-pumping at different pulse repetition frequencies and gain-switched pumping. The standard deviation of the emission wavelength of the laser pulses is measured with the heterodyne technique at the different operating modes. Its dependence on the single-pass gain in the crystal and on the cavity finesse is investigated. At specific operating points the spectral stability of the laser pulses is 1.5 MHz (rms over 10 s). Under gain-switched pumping with 20% duty cycle and 2 W of average pump power, stable single-frequency pulse pairs with a temporal separation of 580 μs are produced at a repetition rate of 50 Hz. The measured pulse energy is 2 mJ (<2 % rms error on the pulse energy over 10 s) and the measured pulse duration is approx. 20 ns for each of the two pulses in the burst.

Blue-green upconversion laser

DOEpatents

Nguyen, D.C.; Faulkner, G.E.

1990-08-14

A blue-green laser (450--550 nm) uses a host crystal doped with Tm[sup 3+]. The Tm[sup 3+] is excited through upconversion by a red pumping laser and an IR pumping laser to a state which transitions to a relatively lower energy level through emissions in the blue-green band, e.g., 450.20 nm at 75 K. The exciting laser may be tunable dye lasers or may be solid-state semiconductor laser, e.g., GaAlAs and InGaAlP. 3 figs.

Blue-green upconversion laser

DOEpatents

Nguyen, Dinh C.; Faulkner, George E.

1990-01-01

A blue-green laser (450-550 nm) uses a host crystal doped with Tm.sup.3+. The Tm.sup.+ is excited through upconversion by a red pumping laser and an IR pumping laser to a state which transitions to a relatively lower energy level through emissions in the blue-green band, e.g., 450.20 nm at 75 K. The exciting laser may be tunable dye lasers or may be solid-state semiconductor laser, e.g., GaAlAs and InGaAlP.

OPO-based compact laser projection display

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Dicky; Moulton, Peter F.; Bergstedt, Robert; Flint, Graham W.

2001-09-01

In this paper we discuss our red, green, and blue (RGB) optical parametric oscillator (OPO) based laser projection display. The complete project display consists of two subsystems, the RGB-OPO laser head and the light modulation unit. The RGB lights from rack-mounted laser head are fibers coupled to the projection unit for independent placement. The light source consists of a diode-pumped pump laser and a LBO-based OPO. Based on our Nd:YLF gain module design, the pump laser is frequency doubled to serve as the pump source for the OPO. The unconverted pump power is recycled as the green light for projection. The singly resonant, non- critically phase-matched (NCPM) OPO has, to date, generated 13 W of 898-nm signal power and an estimated 9.3 W of intra- cavity idler power at 1256 nm. With approximately 76% of pump depletion, the power of the residual green light for projection is about 5.8 W. We have extra-cavity doubled the signal to produce approximately 3.5 W of 449-nm blue light and intra-cavity doubled the idler to produce approximately 6 W of 628-nm red light. The OPO-based RGB source generates about 4000 lumens of D65-balanced white light. The overall electrical power on a commercially available JVC's three- panel D-ILA (reflective LCD) projector with the arc-lamp removed and extensive modifications. The projector has a native resolution of 1365 x 1024 and the expected on screen lumens from our laser display is about 1200 lumens.

Beam quality improvement by population-dynamic-coupled combined guiding effect in end-pumped Nd:YVO4 laser oscillator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Yijie; Gong, Mali; Fu, Xing

2018-05-01

Beam quality improvement with pump power increasing in an end-pumped laser oscillator is experimentally realized for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The phenomenon is caused by the population-dynamic-coupled combined guiding effect, a comprehensive theoretical model of which has been well established, in agreement with the experimental results. Based on an 888 nm in-band dual-end-pumped oscillator using four tandem Nd:YVO4 crystals, the output beam quality of M^2= 1.1/1.1 at the pump power of 25 W is degraded to M^2 = 2.5/1.8 at 75 W pumping and then improved to M^2= 1.8/1.3 at 150 W pumping. The near-TEM_{00} mode is obtained with the highest continuous-wave output power of 72.1 W and the optical-to-optical efficiency of 48.1%. This work demonstrates great potential to further scale the output power of end-pumped laser oscillator while keeping good beam quality.

Efficient Tm:Fiber Pumped Solid-State Ho:YLF 2-micrometer Laser for Remote Sensing Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, Upendra N.; Bai, Yingxin; Yu, Jirong; Petros, Mulugeta

2012-01-01

An efficient 19 W, TEM(sub 00) mode, Ho:YLF laser pumped by continuous wave Tm:fiber laser has been demonstrated at the room temperature. The slope efficiency and optical-to-optical efficiency are 65% and 55%, respectively.

Kinetic analysis of rare gas metastable production and optically pumped Xe lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demyanov, A. V.; Kochetov, I. V.; Mikheyev, P. A.; Azyazov, V. N.; Heaven, M. C.

2018-01-01

Optically pumped all-rare-gas lasers use metastable rare gas atoms as the lasing species in mixtures with He or Ar buffer gas. The metastables are generated in a glow discharge, and we report model calculations for the optimal production of Ne*, Ar*, Kr* and Xe*. Discharge efficiency was estimated by solving the Boltzmann equation. Laser efficiency, gain and output power of the CW optically pumped Xe laser were assessed as functions of heavier rare gas content, pressure, optical pump intensity and the optical path length. It was found that, for efficient operation the heavier rare gas content has to be of the order of one percent or less, and the total pressure—in the range 0.3-1.5 atm. Output power and specific discharge power increase approximately linearly with pump intensity over the output range from 300-500 W cm-2. Ternary mixtures Xe:Ar:He were found to be the most promising. Total laser efficiency was found to be nearly the same for pumping the 2p8 or 2p9 state, reaching 61%-70% for a pump intensity of ~720 W cm-2 when the Xe fraction was in the range 0.001 ÷ 0.01 and Ar fraction—0.1 ÷ 0.5. However, when the 2p8 state was pumped, the maximum total efficiency occurred at larger pressures than for pumping of the 2p9 state. The discharge power density required to sustain a sufficient Xe* number density was in the range of tens of watts per cubic centimeter for 50% Ar in the mixture.

Highly efficient solar-pumped Nd:YAG laser.

PubMed

Liang, Dawei; Almeida, Joana

2011-12-19

The recent progress in solar-pumped laser with Fresnel lens and Cr:Nd:YAG ceramic medium has revitalized solar laser researches, revealing a promising future for renewable reduction of magnesium from magnesium oxide. Here we show a big advance in solar laser collection efficiency by utilizing an economical Fresnel lens and a most widely used Nd:YAG single-crystal rod. The incoming solar radiation from the sun is focused by a 0.9 m diameter Fresnel lens. A dielectric totally internally reflecting secondary concentrator is employed to couple the concentrated solar radiation from the focal zone to a 4 mm diameter Nd:YAG rod within a conical pumping cavity. 12.3 W cw laser power is produced, corresponding to 19.3 W/m(2) collection efficiency, which is 2.9 times larger than the previous results with Nd:YAG single-crystal medium. Record-high slope efficiency of 3.9% is also registered. Laser beam quality is considerably improved by pumping a 3 mm diameter Nd:YAG rod.

Lasing characteristics of refractive-index-matched composite Y3Al5O12 rods employing transparent ceramics for solar-pumped lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasegawa, Kazuo; Ichikawa, Tadashi; Takeda, Yasuhiko; Ikesue, Akio; Ito, Hiroshi; Motohiro, Tomoyoshi

2018-04-01

We have proposed a new configuration of solar-pumped lasers employing transparent ceramic rods. The laser rod has a composite structure consisting of a Nd/Cr:YAG gain domain surrounded by Gd:YAG with the same refractive index as that of Nd/Cr:YAG. The lasing mode is well controlled by the output coupler, and the parasitic oscillation is suppressed, owing to the refractive index matching. A high laser slope efficiency and a low laser oscillation threshold were achieved owing to the suppressed absorption outside the lasing mode, which was previously a serious issue for the end-pumping configuration using a high-NA focusing optics. The laser oscillation threshold of 136 mW and the slope efficiency of 25.3% were derived. Thus, we have resolved the issue of useless absorption associated with the high-NA end-pumping, and achieved significant improvements compared with the conventional structure of uniform Nd/Cr:YAG.

Efficient single-mode (TEM{sub 00}) Nd : YVO{sub 4} laser with longitudinal 808-nm diode pumping

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Donin, V I; Yakovin, D V; Yakovin, M D

2013-10-31

A single-mode Nd : YVO{sub 4} laser with unidirectional longitudinal pumping by laser diodes with λ = 808 nm and a power of 40 W is studied. In the TEM{sub 00} mode, the output laser power is 24 W with the optical efficiency η{sub opt} = 57.1 % (slope efficiency 63.3 %), which, as far as we know, is the best result for Nd{sup 3+} : YVO{sub 4} lasers with longitudinal pumping at λ = 808 nm from one face of the active crystal. Estimates of thermal effects show that, using a Nd : YVO{sub 4} crystal (length 20 mm,more » diameter 3 mm, dopant concentration 0.27 at%) with two undoped ends and bidirectional diode pumping with a total power of 170 W, one can obtain an output power of ∼100 W in the TEM{sub 00} mode from one active element. (lasers)« less

Prototype laser-diode-pumped solid state laser transmitters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kane, Thomas J.; Cheng, Emily A. P.; Wallace, Richard W.

1989-01-01

Monolithic, diode-pumped Nd:YAG ring lasers can provide diffraction-limited, single-frequency, narrow-linewidth, tunable output which is adequate for use as a local oscillator in a coherent communication system. A laser was built which had a linewidth of about 2 kHz, a power of 5 milliwatts, and which was tunable over a range of 30 MHz in a few microseconds. This laser was phase-locked to a second, similar laser. This demonstrates that the powerful technique of heterodyne detection is possible with a diode-pumped laser used as the local oscillator. Laser diode pumping of monolithic Nd:YAG rings can lead to output powers of hundreds of milliwatts from a single laser. A laser was built with a single-mode output of 310 mW. Several lasers can be chained together to sum their power, while maintaining diffraction-limited, single frequency operation. This technique was demonstrated with two lasers, with a total output of 340 mW, and is expected to be practical for up to about ten lasers. Thus with lasers of 310 mW, output of up to 3 W is possible. The chaining technique, if properly engineered, results in redundancy. The technique of resonant external modulation and doubling is designed to efficiently convert the continuous wave, infrared output of our lasers into low duty-cycle pulsed green output. This technique was verified through both computer modeling and experimentation. Further work would be necessary to develop a deliverable system using this technique.

High-power dual-wavelength Ho-doped fiber laser at >2 μm tandem pumped by a 1.15 μm fiber laser

PubMed Central

Jin, Xiaoxi; Lou, Zhaokai; Chen, Yizhu; Zhou, Pu; Zhang, Hanwei; Xiao, Hu; Liu, Zejin

2017-01-01

We demonstrated a high-power continuous-wave (CW) dual-wavelength Ho-doped fiber laser (HDFL) at 2049 nm and 2153 nm with a simple coupled-cavity configuration. A ~100 W laser diode-pumped fiber laser at 1150 nm served as the pump source. The maximum output power reached ~22.3 W and the slope efficiency was 23%. By altering the incident pump power, the power ratio of two signal wavelengths could be tuned in a large range due to gain competition. As far as we know, this is the first CW dual-wavelength HDFL with the power exceeding ten-watt-level, and the first dual-wavelength HDFL with the central wavelengths exceeding 2.0 μm and 2.15 μm respectively. PMID:28181571