Continuous-wave and mode-locked laser operation of segmented grown Yb:KY(WO4)2/KY(WO4)2

The continuous-wave (cw) and passive mode-locked operation of a Ti:sapphire-pumped Yb doped KY(WO
₄
)
₂
laser is reported in this paper. Laser performance in cw operation is studied in a Z-shaped four mirror cavity while in the mode-locked operation, a semiconductor saturable absorber and two SF10 prisms are additionally inserted in the cavity. Results show generation of optical pulses as short as 99 fs with up to 80% slope efficiency. The laser is tunable between 1024.4 nm and 1042.6 nm with pulse durations below 200 fs.