High-average-power 1-Μm performance and frequency conversion ofa diode-end-pumped Yb:YAG laser

摘要

Using a diode-end-pumped technology, a Yb:YAG laser capable ofndelivering up to 434 W of CW power has been demonstrated. The systemnincorporates a unique composite rod design which allows fornhigh-average-power operation while simultaneously suppressing parasiticnoscillations. Modeling and experimental data to support the quenching ofnparasitics are discussed. Beam quality measurements for CW operationnwith several cavity configurations are presented. In particular, beamnquality measurements at 340-W CW yielded a beam quality factor ofnM2=21. Predictions of a quasi-three-level model are comparednwith the experimental data for several output coupler reflectivities. Annobserved dependence of the cavity mode fill as a function of outputncoupler reflectivity is discussed. Employing a single acoustoopticalnswitch, the system was Q-switched at 10 kHz and generated output powersnup to 280 W with a measured beam quality of M2=6.8 at 212 W,nWith an external dual-KTP crystal configuration, the Q-switched outputnwas frequency converted to 515 nm and produced up to 76 W at 10 kHz in an30-ns pulse length