Crystal growth of optical materials for advanced lasers

摘要

During FY96, two specific projects were addressed, Yb-doped fluoroapatite and Cr:ZnSe crystals, which are being used as the gain media to develop diode-pumped solid-state lasers. Both materials have unique properties for near infrared to mid-infrared applications. However, defects in the crystals create optical losses and reduce the efficiency of the lasers. The source of the losses in the crystals were studied and techniques developed to reduce and/or eliminate defects to aid in the growth of high optical quality crystals to increase laser efficiency.