Stimulated-emission cross section at 1064 and 1342 nm in Nd : YVO4

Abstract

The stimulated-emission cross sections at 1064 (4F3/2→4I11/2) and 1342 nm (4F3/2→4I13/2) in Nb : YVO4 were determined by measurement of laser thresholds as a function of output mirror reflectivity. Small samples of Nd : YVO4 and Nd : YAG were end pumped at room temperature with a cw 514.5-nm argon ion laser in an almost identical geometrical arrangement which permitted comparative values to be obtained. Assuming that the pumping quantum efficiency of Nd : YVO is similar to that of Nd : YAG, the stimulated-emission cross sections obtained for the 1064- and 1342-nm transitions were respectively 12×10−19 and 6.0×10−19 cm2.