Efficient Raman shifting of high-energy picosecond pulses into the eye-safe 1.5-μm spectral region by use of a KGd(WO4)2 crystal

We report an efficient transient stimulated Raman conversion of high-energy picosecond pulses at 1350 nm into the eye-safe 1500-nm wavelength range by use of a KGd(WO4)(2) crystal. The conversion efficiency into either 1503- or 1537-nm radiation (767- or 901-cm(-1) Raman modes, respectively) is measured to be similar to 10% in a single-pass configuration. The transient Raman gain coefficient is found to be similar to 0.8 cm/GW. Simultaneous generation of multiple Raman lines is also observed. (C) 2005 Optical Society of America.