Spectroscopy and laser performance of Nd:Lu_2O_3 crystal

Abstract

The spectra of Nd(3+):Lu(2)O(3) crystal have been examined at room temperature. Judd-Ofelt theory was applied to calculate the spectral parameters of the crystal. With a laser diode as pump source, a continuous-wave laser output power of 2.81 W is achieved, which is the highest value ever reported in this crystals to our knowledge, and its wavelength is also found to be dual-wavelength. Because of the emission cross-section at 1076 nm and 1080 nm are almost identical, laser oscillation for such two wavelengths can be obtained simultaneously. All the properties show that Nd:Lu2O3 is an excellent crystal for laser applications.