20-W average-power KTP intracavity-doubled Nd:YAG laser

Abstract

A multitransverse-mode, KTP intracavity-doubled Nd:YAG laser is discussed. Output powers of greater than 20 W at 0.532 μm at a Q-switching frequency of 25 kHz have been demonstrated from several different KTP crystals with a maximum of 28 W generated. Maximum single-pulse energies of 3.3 mJ and 17-kW peak power have been generated at a switching frequency of 4 kHz. A second-harmonic-power versus lamp-input-power conversion efficiency of 0.6% has been achieved. Continuous-wave output powers of greater than 9.0 W have been generated as well. Thermally induced aberration losses have been measured for KTP that indicate quite a large value for the thermal conductivity of this material.