Compact 18 mJ 100 Hz Nanosecond Yb:YAG Laser Oscillation at Room Temperature

Abstract A compact High energy end-pumped Yb:YAG rod laser oscillator with nanosecond (ns) pulse was demonstrated. By combining the quasi three-level characteristics of Yb: YAG and the steps method simulation, the crystal parameters were optimized. By using a 2.0 at.% doped Yb:YAG rod with 10 mm length, a 1030 nm laser output energy of 18 mJ with 100 Hz, and ~ 30 ns was achieved through direct oscillator. The beam quality M 2 factor was 1.13. The setup of the whole system had a compact footprint of 300 × 400 mm 2 . Hopefully, the end-pumped Yb:YAG with a moderate doped concentration provides an alternative solution for a compact seed source for high energy 100 Hz ns laser.