Solid state vibrational lasers using F-center/molecular-defect pairs in alkali halides

摘要

Vibrational emission from molecular defects in ionic crystals can be realized by dilute diatomic molecular defects such as, e.g., CN. sup.- molecules in alkali halide crystals. After association of F-centers to the CN.sup.- molecules, forming a new F-center/molecular defect pair, the emission can be pumped by optical F-center excitation through electronic- vibrational coupling. Using this coupling mechanism, laser action in the near infrared wavelength region is obtained between vibrational energy levels of the molecules while pumping the F- center/molecule defect in the visible wavelength range. The laser crystals are prepared by additively coloring a CN.sup.- doped alkali halide crystal and exposing the colored crystal to light having a wavelength capable of being absorbed by the electronic F-center/molecule defect transition.