Development of a Novel Laser Material for Miniaturized Laser System.
Abstract
Growth experiments have continued on crystals of NdP5014 (NPP) and NdLiP4012(LNP). Laser rods are now being fabricated from large NPP crystals of excellent optical quality. Top seeding experiments on LNP crystals produced single crystals up to 1 cm in size; however, the optical quality was poor, presumably due to inhomogeneities of the fluxed melt. The growth setup is being changed to overcome this problem. Emission spectra of Nd in NPP, LNP, and NAB crystals have been recorded at both room and liquid nitrogen temperatures. Together with the absorption spectra, these measurements gave the emission cross sections of the Nd3+ ions in these crystals. Using the emission cross sections and the fluorescence lifetime values measured previously, rough comparisons were made of the laser performance parameters of the three crystals. Using the experimental laser setup described in the previous quarterly report, we obtained the output energy versus electrical input energy characteristics of the NdPP laser for various mirror and cavity configurations. Approximate efficiencies of the laser pumping system were calculated. Fabrication of a miniature laser with optimum output is being seriously hindered by the lack of proper-size miniature flash lamps (2-3 mm O.D. and 15-20 mm arc length).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA188030
Entities
People
- Walter Zwicker