Simulation of dual-wavelength pumped 3.5 μm CW laser operation of Er:CaF2 and Er:KY3F10 in waveguide configuration

Based on a detailed spectroscopic investigation, a simulation is developed to demonstrate the possibility of multiwatt CW laser operation of highly doped Er:CaF2 and Er:KY3F10 cubic crystals in a waveguide configuration using single- and dual-wavelength pumping. A comparison is made with the results obtained in the case of an Er:ZBLAN fluorozirconate glass in the same conditions. (C) 2019 Optical Society of America