Stable-relaxation-oscillation Nd lasers for long-pulse generation

A simple method to produce high-energy neodymium (Nd) laser pulses with durations on the order of 1 mu s is described. Solid-state lasers can be pumped by relatively short flashlamp pulses to produce well-behaved relaxation oscillations in a diffusion-limited beam. Under the right conditions, each output laser pulse consists of a series of discrete subpulses that are ideally suited to efficient, high-energy amplification. Experimental results for an Nd:LiYF/sub 4/ oscillator/amplifier system are presented along with numerical simulations. These demonstrate that the system operation is predictable and well behaved. Data are also included for a Nd:glass tunable oscillator based on this concept.<
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