EVALUATION OF OXIDE LASER HOSTS
Abstract
The optical spectra and crystal growth of a wide number of hosts were studied to determine their potential usefulness as laser materials. Two types of ions were studied because of their known broad, efficient, absorption and emission bands: divalent rare earths and transition metals. The stabilization of divalent rare earths in a large number of oxide crystals was studied with the emphasis on Sm2+. The host crystal cations were selected because of their theoretical stability with divalent rare earths, however, only the combination of Eu2+ in Y3Al5O12 was found to be stable. The transition metals (Sb3+, Bi3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Mn2+, Cr3+ and RH3+), were studied in divalent and trivalent hosts. The emission spectra were measured on all samples at room temperature and at liquid nitrogen temperature, and, in cases where good crystals were available, transmission measurements were made. Fluorescent lifetime and excitation spectra were measured where samples had sufficient intensity. Of the materials measured only ZnWO4:Cr had good spectral properties and could be grown easily. Large crystals of ZnWO4:Cr were grown and fabricated for laser testing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 31, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0803968
Entities
People
- Robert C. Linares