Multi-kW-class 164 μm Er^3+:YAG lasers based on heat-capacity operation

Abstract

This paper discusses the spectroscopic fundametals, the scaling properties and experimental results of quasi-three-level resonantly diode-pumped Er3+:YAG solid-state heat-capacity laser (SSHCL) technology. With an output power of 4650 W and output energies in excess of 440 J this laser is currently the most powerful ”eye-safe” SSHCL. Due to a moderate crystal temperature rise of only 56.7 K/s at 11.3 kW of pump power and a temperature-related power drop of 8.8 W/K the laser shows strong potential for further upscaling.