1st-Stokes and 2nd-Stokes dual-wavelength operation and mode-locking modulation in diode-side-pumped Nd:YAG/BaWO4 Raman laser

1st-Stokes and 2nd-Stokes dual-wavelength operation within a diode-side-pumped Q-switched Nd:YAG/BaWO4 intracavity Raman laser was realized. Using an output coupler of transmission of 3.9% at 1180 nm and transmission of 60.08% at 1325 nm, the maximum output power of 8.30 W and 2.84 W at a pulse repetition rate of 15 kHz for the 1st Stokes and the 2nd Stokes laser were obtained, respectively. The corresponding optical conversion efficiency from diode laser to the 1st Stokes and 2nd Stokes laser are 5.0% and 1.4%, respectively. With the pump power of 209 W and a pulse repetition rate of 15 kHz, the 1st Stokes and the 2nd Stokes pulse widths were 20.5 ns and 5.8 ns, respectively. The stable simultaneous Q-switching and mode locking of the 2nd Stokes laser without mode locking component was obtained at the pump power of about 29 similar to 82 W. The estimated mode-locked pulse width was approximately 31 ps at the pump power of 50 W and a pulse repetition rate of 15 kHz. (c) 2012 Optical Society of America