Host-dependence of Trivalent Erbium (Er3+) Spectra Relevant to Solid-state Lasers: Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (YAG) and Sesquioxides

Abstract

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory is developing technologies for power-scalable solid-state lasers operating at cryogenic temperatures. We have particular interest in operation at wavelengths that present the least risk of ocular damage, resulting in considerable focus on trivalent erbium (Er3+). We have carried out extensive comparisons of the spectra of Er3+ in two particularly promising types of oxide crystals: yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) and various cubic sesquioxides. This report presents many of the principal results of this study. Er:YAG has more favorable properties for room-temperature laser operation, but some Er-doped sesquioxides appear more advantageous for operation at and near liquid nitrogen temperature.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 2011
Accession Number
ADA553954

Entities

People

  • Larry D. Merkle
  • Nikolay Ter-gabrielyan

Organizations

  • United States Army Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Sensors

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Absorption Spectra
  • Detectors
  • Emission Spectra
  • Energy Levels
  • Ground State
  • Laser Applications
  • Laser Diodes
  • Lasers
  • Long Wavelengths
  • Military Research
  • Refraction
  • Refractive Index
  • Scattering
  • Solid State Lasers
  • Spectra
  • Spectroscopy
  • Yttrium Aluminum Garnet

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Optical Physics and Photonics.
  • Surface Engineering/Surface Coating Technology.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy