Spectroscopy and 2.1 μm laser operation of Czochralski- grown Tm3+:YScO3 crystals

We report on growth, temperature-dependent spectroscopy, and laser experiments of Tm3+-doped YScO3 mixed sesquioxide crystals. For the first time, cm(3)-scale laser quality Tm3+:YScO3 crystals with 2.2 at.% and 3.1 at.% doping levels were grown by the Czochralski method from iridium crucibles. We reveal that the structural disorder in the mixed crystals allows for broad and smooth spectral features even at cryogenic temperatures. We obtained the first continuous wave laser operation in this material at wavelengths around 2100 nm using a laser diode emitting at 780 nm as a pump source. A maximum slope efficiency of 45% was achieved using a Tm3 + (3.1 at.%):YScO3 crystal. Our findings demonstrate the high potential of Tm3+-doped mixed sesquioxides for efficient ultrafast pulse generation in the 2.1 mu m range. (c) 2022 Optica Publishing Group under the terms of the Optica Open Access Publishing Agreement

Automated summary

This study reports on the growth, temperature-dependent spectroscopy, and laser experiments of Tm3+-doped YScO3 mixed sesquioxide crystals. Laser quality Tm3+:YScO3 crystals with different doping levels were successfully grown, and the structural disorder in the mixed crystals allows for broad and smooth spectral features even at cryogenic temperatures. Continuous wave laser operation in the 2.1μm range was achieved using these crystals, demonstrating their potential for efficient ultrafast pulse generation.