Efficient depolarization-loss-compensation of solid state lasers using only a Glan-Taylor polarizer

摘要

A novel scheme for reducing the depolarization loss resulting from thermally induced stress birefringence of a free running flash-lamp pumped single Nd: YAG rod is reported here and measured under resonator configuration with the use of a Glan-Taylor polarizer only. The depolarization loss has been systematically investigated and compared with the quarter wave-plate scheme. The Glan-Taylor polarizer is given two rotations with respect to two perpendicular axes for obtaining Brewster's effect as well as phase retardation inside a stable resonator. This single optical element optimally reduces depolarization loss to ～18% and performs better than quarter wave-plate in combination with a polarizer. Using Jones-vector formulation, we analyzed the effect of tilting of Glan-Taylor polarizer and accounted the measured data of depolarization loss.