Abstract

Nd:YLF and Nd:YAG are two of the most commonly used solid state laser crystals because of their qualities both spectroscopically and thermo-mechanically. However, scaling these lasers to higher powers has been hindered by thermal lensing problems. We have found that under different schemes of operation, e.g. CW versus Q-switched, the heat load and consequent thermal lensing may vary significantly. The mechanisms underlying this difference must be thoroughly understood and controlled if optimum design for efficient operation is to be achieved.

© 1998 IEEE