Reactive Atmosphere Growth of 2.06 Micron Laser Crystals.
Abstract
A specified formula Y(0.428)Er(0.500)Tm(0.067)Ho(0.005)LiF4 was used as a first approximation to a laser system whereby the necessary broad pump bands and fast, efficient laser excitation could be obtained. Laser rods were cut from single crystal ingots grown by a reactive atmosphere process (RAP). Thermal conductivity, hardness, elastic modulus, rupture strength, radiative characteristics, and laser test data were measured to determine the laser performance characteristics of Ho:YLF. Development of RAP Ho:YLF growth procedures provided proof of practical, congruent melting behavior. Electron probe, spectrographic analysis, and backscatter measurements showed R(3+) (R = Y + Er + Tm + Ho in Ho:YLF) acted as one ionic species in crystal growth. Glass-like optical quality Ho:YLF was RAP Czochralski grown at 5 mm/hour. A short investigation of Bridgman growth indicated that higher yields and inexpensively scaled-up rod production technology can be developed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- ADA001557
Entities
People
- D. P. Devor
- K. Arita
- Michael Robinson
- R. C. Pastor
- W. M. Akutagawa
Organizations
- HRL Laboratories