Abstract

Two fundamental problems hinder wider use of solid-state IR lasers, such as Nd:YAG for generating high-power visible radiation over several watts: (1) thermal-optical problems degrade the beam brightness in a rod-type solid-state laser operated at a high-power level; (2) nonlinear optical materials useful as an efficient frequency doubler for highpower applications are very limited. Several recent developments, however, have significantly improved the prospect for generating high-average-power visible laser radiation using a solid-state laser approach.

© 1984 Optical Society of America