Laser and spectral properties of Cr, Tm, Ho:YAG at 2.1 mu m

The authors study the loss process in a uniformly pumped amplifier experiment. The impact of the loss mechanism on laser performance is discussed and its dependence on excited state density is considered. An extensive set of measurements was performed on flashlamp pumped YAG crystals doped with chromium, thulium, and holmium. Near-room-temperature laser operation on the 2.1 mu m holmium transitions was characterized using a frequency selective resonator. Small signal gain and stored energy lifetimes were analyzed to determine the strength and dependence of loss mechanisms. The analysis of the thermal lensing experiments demonstrated a high degree of excess heat generation in this material.<
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