Efficient Nd:Y3Al5O12 Crystal Fiber Laser

Abstract

Efficient Nd:Y3Al5O12 (Nd:YAG) lasers were demonstrated using gradient-index crystal fibers. A laser output power of 145 mW was achieved along with a slope efficiency of 28.9%. Up to 40% higher Nd ion concentration compared to that in the source rod at the center of the crystal fiber was obtained. Measurement by low-coherence reflectometry indicated an index difference of 0.0284 between the center and the edge of the crystal fiber.