Abstract

We investigated the possibility to amplify the Stokes components in Nd-lasers with Raman converters using LiF $\left({\text{F}}_2{}^{-}\right)$ crystals. For many Raman converters the wavelengths of the Stokes components under the pumping fundamental harmonic of Nd- laser coincides with the amplification band of ${\text{F}}_2{}^{-}$ color centers. Power density required for excitation of ${\text{F}}_2{}^{-}$ centers is much less than one for excitation of stimulated Raman scattering (SRS), so it makes possible to use unfocused beam to pump bonded system: Raman converter and LiF$\left({\text{F}}_2{}^{-}\right)$ crystal. Moreover, the same laser beam generated by Nd active element is used to pump both Raman converter and LiF$\left({\text{F}}_2{}^{-}\right)$ amplifier.

© 1994 Optical Society of America