Efficient dielectric diffraction gratings: Novel approaches to scaling up the output of narrowband lasers

摘要

Novel approaches to increasing the output of narrowband lasers are proposed and investigated. A specific feature of the proposed laser designs is the use of efficient dielectric grating diffractive optical elements. The dielectric diffraction grating fabrication technology has been developed. This technology allows for the manufacturing of large, high-optical-quality dielectric gratings with record high efficiency. Laser experiments with the fabricated dielectric gratings have been carried out using LiF crystals with F-2(-) color centers as the laser active medium. The efficient narrowband operation of a large-active-medium-volume pulsed LiF:F-2(-) laser was achieved. Thus, the applicability of the dielectric grating diffractive optical elements for high-power laser applications was confirmed.