Power scalable semiconductor disk laser using multiple gain cavity

Abstract

We report on power scaling of optically-pumped semiconductor disk lasers using multiple gain scheme. The method allows for significant power improvement while preserving good beam quality. Total power of over 8 W was achieved in dual-gain configuration, while one-gain lasers could produce separately about 4 W, limited by the thermal rollover of the output characteristics. The results show that reduced thermal load to a gain element in a dual-gain cavity allows extending the range of usable pump powers boosting the laser output.