Broadening emission band of Yb:LuScO3 transparent ceramics for ultrashort pulse laser

Sesquioxides were considered as promising gain medium for high power ultrafast laser. Broadening of emission spectrum plays a crucial role in shortening the pulse width of laser. In this paper, the ratio of lutetium oxide and scandium oxide was adjusted to control the emission wavelength and spectral width. Highly sinterable Yb:(LuxSc1-x)(2)O-3 nanopowders were synthesized through the glycine-nitrate combustion process. Transparent Yb:(LuxSc1-x)(2)O-3 ceramics were fabricated via vacuum sintering at 1750celcius for 10 h, among which Yb:(Lu0.5Sc0.5)(2)O-3 ceramics have the highest transmittance, reaching 78% at 1100 nm. With increasing Lu2O3 content, the emission wavelengths corresponding to the two transitions of Yb:(LuxSc1-x)(2)O-3 were blueshifted 8 and 15 nm, respectively. Most importantly, from Yb:Sc2O3 to Yb:(Lu0.5Sc0.5)(2)O-3, spectral broadening of the two emission wavelengths was observed by 9 and 16 nm, respectively. Thus, the Yb:(LuxSc1-x)(2)O-3 ceramics exhibiting high transmittance and broad emission band are promising for ultrashort pulse generation.

Automated summary

By adjusting the ratio of lutetium oxide and scandium oxide, the emission wavelength and spectral width of the laser can be controlled successfully. Yb:(LuxSc1-x)2O3 ceramics with high transmittance and broad emission band were fabricated, showing potential for ultrashort pulse generation. This research provides new possibilities for the development of ultrafast lasers.