Review of the Yb<sup>3+</sup>:ScBO<sub>3</sub> Laser Crystal Growth, Characterization, and Laser Applications

oleh: Dazhi Lu, Xiaoheng Li, Haohai Yu, Huaijin Zhang, Jiyang Wang

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: MDPI AG 2021-11-01

Deskripsi

Passive Q-switching is an effective approach for generating pulsed lasers, owing to its compact and additional modulation-free design. However, to compare favorably with active Q-switching and multi-stage amplification, the output energy needs to be enhanced for practical applications. Kramers Ytterbium ion (Yb<sup>3+</sup>)-doped borate crystals, with their excellent energy storage capacity, have been proven to be high-potential laser gain mediums for achieving pulsed lasers with moderate and high output energy using passive Q-switching technology. In this study, the growth, characterization, and laser generation of one Yb<sup>3+</sup>-doped borate crystal, the Yb<sup>3+</sup>:ScBO<sub>3</sub> crystal, are systematically reviewed. The continuous-wave and passive Q-switching laser characteristics are presented in detail, and the self-pulsations derived from intrinsic ground-state reabsorption are also demonstrated. The specific characteristics and experiments confirm the potential of the Yb<sup>3+</sup>:ScBO<sub>3</sub> crystal for future pulsed laser applications with moderate or even high energy output.