Three-dimensional microstructuring of yttrium aluminum garnet crystals for laser active optofluidic applications

We demonstrate three-dimensional microstructuring in a neodymium doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) crystal. Spatially well-defined hollow microstructures deeply embedded within the material are shown to result from the creation of a pre-damage state within the Nd: YAG crystal network that is validated using luminescence and Raman analyses of the structures. This opens up the potential of fabricating next-generation optofluidic devices in optical gain materials. (C) 2013 AIP Publishing LLC. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4816338]