Abstract

Nonradiative energy transfer among ions in solid state laser materials has been the focus of many studies. However, radiative energy transfer, or more generally the reabsorption process, is also relevant to laser performance and has not received as much attention. We have studied the dynamics of this process through the systematic measurement, correlation, and modeling of the kinetic and spectral behavior of the Ho ⁵I₇ emission. The kinetic data were obtained by examining the temporal response of the Ho ion to pulsed excitation, and the spectroscopic data were acquired through measurements of absorption and luminescence. This investigation was conducted over a wide range of concentrations (0.32 to 8.5%), emission path lengths (0.3 to 8.3 mm), and temperatures (30 to 500 K). All of the experimental samples were cut into identical slabs of rectangular cross section.

© 1992 IQEC