Compact, high peak power, diode pumped, Q-switched Tm:YLF laser

In this paper the properties of the acousto-optically Q-switched Tm:YLF laser are presented. The fiber coupled (400 mum core diameter) laser diode bar of 30-W was used for pumping. With improved mirrors the average power of 2 -3 W with rep. rate in kHz range and peak power above 100 kW is feasible for such a laser. This laser can be useful for the purpose of the biological material ablation where the short powerful pulse in this wavelength region is necessary.