Axisymmetric Laser Sources with Planar Gain Media
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Southampton
Department Name: Optoelectronics Research Ctr (closed)
Abstract
This project will investigate a new approach for generating axisymmetric laser output from active media with a planar geometry. A novel intracavity beam transformer will be employed to convert the highly elliptical cavity mode, with dimensions determined by the planar excitation volume, to a circular mode without degradation in brightness. This scheme will be applied to high-power, diode-pumped, thin-slab and 'thick' planar waveguide solid-state lasers where it offers the prospect of improved output beam quality, and hence higher brightness, as well as extended functionality compared to previous designs. A detailed study of the beam transformer and its application to planar devices will be conducted to establish resonator design criteria, the impact of thermal effects and the main limitations of the technique. The project will also explore several laser configurations (e.g. high-average-power CW and Q-switched lasers) aimed at demonstrating the key benefits to be derived via this approach. However, the main ambition of this work is to show that solid-state lasers based on a combination of planar active media and the beam transformer, can both rival and complement solid-state sources based on fibre and thin-disc technology, by offering the potential for high power and high brightness with added flexibility in mode of operation and a compact format, thereby meeting the needs of a range of applications.
Organisations
Publications
J Mackenzie
(2006)
Circular beams from slab lasers
J.W Kim (Author)
(2009)
Impact of energy-transfer-upconversion on performance in quasi-three-level solid-state lasers
Kim JW
(2009)
Influence of energy-transfer-upconversion on threshold pump power in quasi-three-level solid-state lasers.
in Optics express
Mackenzie J
(2010)
Power-scaling Nd:YAG's quasi-four-level transition
Mackenzie J
(2009)
An efficient high-power 946 nm Nd:YAG planar waveguide laser
in Applied Physics B
Mackenzie J
(2008)
Circular output from a high power Nd:YLF slab laser
Description | This project investigated a new approach for generating axisymmetric laser beams from active media with a planar geometry. A novel intracavity beam transformer was developed to convert a highly elliptical cavity mode, with an aspect ratio of >30:1 and matched to the slab excitation volume, into a circular mode with minimal degradation in brightness. This scheme was applied to high-power, diode-pumped, thin-slab Nd:YLF lasers where it enabled the power scaling to record power levels for this gan media. The main ambition of this work was to show that solid-state lasers based on a combination of planar active media and the novel beam transforming cavity, can both rival and complement solid-state sources based on fibre and thin-disc architectures. Offering the potential for high power/energy and high brightness with added flexibility in mode of operation, thereby meeting the needs of a range of applications. |
Exploitation Route | High-pulse energy lasers A PCT filing for patent protection was initiated, Claiming priority number GB 0505794.8. Engagement with a US company showed initial hopes of commercial exploitation, however ultimately the design was not suitable for the final application and their interested waned. Consequently without sufficient interest in the technology, progression to a full patent was not pursued. |
Sectors | Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology |
Description | The findings have added to the knowledge economy, though the 15 associated journal and conference publications. |
First Year Of Impact | 2006 |
Sector | Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology |
Impact Types | Societal |