Enhanced radiation resistant properties of Nd:GSAG laser crystal by co-doping of Cr3+

Abstract

With the further exploration of outer space by human beings, the demand for outer space laser is increasing. Therefore, developing laser materials that can resist the space irradiation become increasingly important. In this study, high quality Nd, Cr:GSAG crystal was grown successfully by Czochralski method. The X-ray diffraction results indicate that the crystal structure remains unchanged after the irradiation with 60Co gamma-ray. In addition, Raman, absorption and fluorescence spectra of the as-grown crystal are almost unaffected by the irradiation, suggesting the excellent radiation resistant ability of the crystal. Compared with the Nd:GSAG crystal, the co-doping of Cr3+ can enhance the radiation resistant ability and luminescent efficiency apparently. Importantly, LD pumped 1.06 μm laser results indicate the Nd, Cr:GSAG crystal can be considered as a promising high efficiency laser material for the application in harsh radiation environment, such as in outer space.