Efficient high-power TEM00 mode operation of diode-pumped Yb:YAG thin disk lasers

Abstract

The thin disk laser concept is suitable for high-power TEM 00 of Yb:YAG lasers with high efficiency since thermal lensing effects are only weak. Laser operation in the fundamental mode can only be achieved by matching the diameter of the fundamental mode of the resonator in the thin disk to the pumped diameter. An appropriate concept for a resonator with low sensitivity to misalignment of the cavity mirrors is developed and tested experimentally. With this concept it is possible to generate large diameters of the fundamental mode in the crystal and to couple several disks in one resonator.