Types of Lasers

Abstract

There are various types of lasers. Each one has different characteristics, which depend on the active medium used for laser action. This chapter discusses the major types of lasers, based primarily on the active medium. It discusses recent developments in laser technology, especially with regard to industrial lasers, specifically those used for materials processing. The principal laser categories include the following: solid-state lasers, gas lasers, semiconductor lasers, and liquid dye lasers. The chapter provides highlights on the solid-state, gas, and semiconductor lasers, since they are more widely used for industrial applications. Even though semiconductor lasers are also based on solid material, they are considered separately since the pumping and lasing mechanisms are different. In addition to the major laser categories, the chapter then discusses new developments in industrial laser technology. Ultrafast, slab, disk, and fiber lasers are considered separately under this category.