Abstract

The ⁴F_3/2 → ⁴i_9/2 transition at 946 nm in Nd:YAG attracts particular attention as it allows generation of blue light by frequency doubling. However, efficient lasing on this transition is considerably more difficult to achieve than on the 1.064 µm line. The problems with the 946 nm transition are its quasi-three-level nature, which results in a significant reabsorption loss, and a very small stimulated-emission cross section. This requires tight focusing of the pump beam, which results in strong thermal lensing effects even for moderate pump power levels.

© 2001 EPS