Spectroscopy, continuous-wave and Q-switched diode-pumped laser operation of Er~(3+), Yb~(3+):YVO_4 crystal

摘要

We report on the spectroscopy and, for the first time to our knowledge, continuous-wave and Q-switched diode-pumped laser operation of Er, Yb:YVO_4 crystal. Absorption and emission spectra of the crystal were determined. Lifetimes of Er~(3+) ~4I_(13/2) and ~4I_(11/2) levels that define laser performance of the crystal were measured and parameters of energy transfer between Yb~(3+) and Er~(3+) ions were estimated. cw output power of 115 mW with slope efficiency of 5.4% was achieved at 1604 nm. In the Q-switched mode an average output power of 81 mW with slope efficiency of 3.5% and pulse duration of 150 ns was obtained. In quasi-cw regime maximal peak power of 610 mW with slope efficiency of 6.7% was demonstrated.