Low-phonon PbF₂:Tm³⁺-doped crystal for 1.9µm lasing

Abstract

Tm-doped PbF 2 crystal is successfully grown in a home-made Bridgman furnace. The laser properties of Tm 3+ in PbF 2 crystal at around 1900 nm are then evaluated based on the absorption and emission cross-section. Laser operation in Tm:PbF 2 single crystal at 1900 nm with laser-diode pumping is demonstrated for the first time. With a 2 mol. % Tm 3+ -doped sample, a maximum output power of 1.17 W is realized at a wavelength of 1900 nm for 6.8 W of absorbed pump power with a slope efficiency of 26%. We propose that the Tm:PbF 2 crystal may be a promising new material for 1900 nm high peak power laser applications.