Derivation of the Frantz-Nodvik Equation for Diode-Side-Pumped Zigzag Slab Laser Amplifiers With Gaussian Laser Mode and Pump Beam Shapes

The theory for Gaussian beam pulse propagation in a zigzag slab amplifier with a Gaussian pump distribution is detailed. Provisions are made for amplification of an input signal with an elliptical Gaussian spatial mode by modifying the time-dependent photon transport equations as described by Eggleston Frantz, and Injeyan. A comparison is made with experimental results of a diode-side-pumped zigzag slab amplifier element amplifying a near-Gaussian beam.