Abstract

The planar waveguide geometry for solid-state lasers provides a range of capabilities intermediate between conventional rod and slab lasers with free-space resonators on the one hand and single mode fibre lasers on the other. The geometry is well matched to the natural properties of laser diode bars for pumping. Currently, the most successful active planar waveguides for high average power operation are produced by the diffusion bonding process developed by Meissner at Onyx Optics Inc.¹ Active waveguide cores in the thickness range of 8 to 200 μm are available using Nd:YAG, Yb:YAG and other solid state laser materials, and the emphasis is now on fully exploiting this newly available laser medium. A wide range of opportunities are available for power scaling of very compact devices, whilst controlling beam quality and polarisation.

© 2002 Optical Society of America