Abstract

The new solid-state laser materials, Cr:LiCaAlF₆ (Li:CAF)¹ and its derivatives Cr:LiSrAlF₆ (LiSAF)² and Cr:LiSrGaF₆ (LiSGAF)³, exhibit a combination of properties (a broad emission spectrum, long-lifetime of the upper lasing level, low thermal lensing, and low excited state absorption) which make it a unique source for tunable and/or short-pulse lasers. Lasing in LiCAF has been reported from 700 to 900 nm,¹ while lasing in LiSAF has been demonstrated from 750 to 1000 nm.² The broad emission bands of the LiCAF family are exceeded only by Ti:Sapphire (660-1100 nm)⁴ in commercially available solid-state laser materials. However, unlike Ti:Sapphire, these materials can be easily flashlamp-pumped due to the long storage time of the upper lasing level, 67 psec for LiSAF and 170 psec for LiCAF. Flashlamp pumped operation of a LiSAF laser was first reported by Stalder, et al, who achieved a slope efficiency of 5% for long-pulse operation.⁵

© 1992 The Author(s)