Multi-wavelengths Z-scan n2 measurements on crystal hosts for ultraviolet laser systems

Year: 2001

Authors: Toci G., Vannini M., Salimbeni R., Dubinskii M.A., Giorgetti E.

Autors Affiliation: Istituto di Elettronica Quantistica, Via Panciatichi 56/30, 50127 Firenze, Italy; Magnon Inc., 11710 Reisterstown Road S204A, Reisterstown MD 21136, United States; Istituto di Ricerca sulle Onde Elettromagnetiche “Nello Carrara” (IROE-CNR), Via Panciatichi 64, 50127 Firenze, Italy

Abstract: The nonlinear Kerr refractive index n2 was determined in several crystal hosts, suitable for Ce3+ doping to obtain tunable laser emission in the UV (LiBaF3, LiLuF4, LiCAF, SrAlF5) and in the KMgF3, suitable for Yb2+ doping, a potential laser material in blue region. These parameters were measured by means of Z-scan measurements at 1064 nm and 532 nm, using picosecond laser pulses. The materials under test didn\’t exhibit two photon absorption effects, within the experimental sensitivity limits. The characterization of these new optical materials is important in view of the development of high peak power laser oscillators and amplifiers.

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KeyWords: Crystals; Doping (additives); Laser pulses; Optical Kerr effect; Optical materials; Photons; Refractive index; Scanning, Ultraviolet laser systems, Solid state lasers
DOI: 10.1117/12.414094