Technical Analysis and Qualitative Overview of High Power Lasers with Emphasis on Fiber Lasers and Diode-pumped Solid-State Lasers having Potential for Applications in Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering

Abstract

The use of high power lasers has recently picked up in Engineering, especially Aeronautics and Aeronautical Engineering. This paper gives an overview of such applications with emphasis on the role of Erbium doped Fiber lasers, and diode-pumped solid-state lasers. Some Novel lasers like Random Lasers, X-Ray free electron lasers, Photonic Nano cavities, Ring resonators, and Spin lasers have been mentioned. Efforts being made in finding their new applications in various fields including research have been pointed out. The interest shown by defaces organizations and research institutions in investing lots of funds for new applications have been outlined. Some discussion on the Carbon dioxide lasers, Hydrogen fluoride lasers, and Cascaded Raman lasers has been presented. Erbium doped Fiber amplifiers and Diode-pumped solid-state lasers have been discussed at length. Some experimental results available in the literature have been technically discussed. A qualitative review of the important studies in this field has been given. The paper should be useful for the optical engineers engaged in the research work in this evolving field.