15 W diode-side-pumped Tm:YAG waveguide laser at2 µm

Abstract

The high-power side-pumped operation of a double-clad Tm:YAG waveguide laser at 2.02 µm, using two proximity-coupled 20 W diode pump lasers, is reported. A slope efficiency of 43% was observed with respect to incident diode power, giving a maximum output power of 15 W. The double-clad geometry ensures diffraction-limited output in the guided plane.