High-Power Laser Diode Bars and Arrays for Pumping of High-Energy Solid State Lasers

摘要

Since the laser diode is an excellent converter of electrical energy to nearly monochromatic optical energy, it serves as the primary pump source for many solid state lasers. Of particular interest to Coherent Direct Diode Systems (DDS) are the design, development, and construction of multi-kilowatt diode arrays for use as high-energy solid state laser pump sources. The key components of these sources include the diode laser bars, thermal management system, and rugged array design. Recent advances in these three crucial areas will be reported. The most up-to-date high-power diode laser bar results will be shown along with their operation under stressful environmental conditions. New diode laser bar heat sinks that are designed to be more environmentally tolerant will also be discussed. The demonstration of these components and others are combined to produce the latest two-dimensional (2D) diode laser bar arrays that are designed for harsh operating conditions.