Q-switched vortex waveguide laser generation based on LNOI thin films with implanted Ag nanoparticles

Lithium-niobate-on-insulator (LNOI) thin films have gained significant attention in integrated photonics due to their exceptional crystal properties and wide range of applications. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to realize a Q-switched vortex waveguide laser by incorporating integrated lithium niobate thin films with embedded silver nanoparticles (Ag:LNOI) as a saturable absorber. The saturable absorption characteristics of Ag:LNOI are investigated using a home-made Z-scan system. Additionally, we integrate Ag:LNOI as a saturable absorber into a Nd:YAG ear-like cladding waveguide platform, which is prepared via femtosecond laser direct writing. By combining this setup with helical phase plates for phase modulation in the resonator, we successfully achieve a passive Q-switched vortex laser with a high repetition rate and narrow pulse duration in the near-infrared region. This work demonstrates the potential applications of LNOI thin films towards on-chip integration of vortex waveguide laser sources.

Automated summary

In this paper, a novel approach to realize a Q-switched vortex waveguide laser using lithium niobate thin films and embedded silver nanoparticles is proposed and investigated. By integrating this vortex laser into a resonator, high repetition rate and narrow pulse duration are achieved. This work demonstrates the potential applications of LNOI thin films towards on-chip integration of vortex waveguide laser sources.