Reflection losses of a multidisc diode-pumped Nd: YAG laser

This paper reports on the alignment requirements of a scalable multidisc laser with respect to the internal reflection losses of the resonator. Considering the polarization state of the mode, these losses are generated due to a polarization mismatch at the disc surfaces. Measurements of the polarization of the output beam from a laser containing tilted discs were compared with computer simulations. The losses were calculated for resonators containing discs deviating slightly from the ideal orientation in a random manner, in order to predict the alignment requirements for a multidisc system. Results for variable numbers of discs and angular deviations are presented.     

Interaction of 3μm radiation with matter

Drilling of small holes into media containing O-H or C-H bonds with a 2.92m YAIO₃-Er laser is studied. In materials containing O-H bonds strong absorption allows small volumina to be heated with only marginal heat diffusion. Drilling with nearly diffraction-limited lateral resolution is achieved.     

Reflection losses of a multidisc diode-pumped Nd: YAG laser

This paper reports on the alignment requirements of a scalable multidisc laser with respect to the internal reflection losses of the resonator. Considering the polarization state of the mode, these losses are generated due to a polarization mismatch at the disc surfaces. Measurements of the polarization of the output beam from a laser containing tilted discs were compared with computer simulations. The losses were calculated for resonators containing discs deviating slightly from the ideal orientation in a random manner, in order to predict the alignment requirements for a multidisc system. Results for variable numbers of discs and angular deviations are presented.     

Power limits of a YAG:Er laser

The power limits of a repetitively Xe-flashlamp pumped YAG: Er laser with 40% at % dopant concentration, have been determined. The limits result from thermal effects. These limits as well as the threshold can be reduced by selective pumping of the ⁴I upper laser level.