Abstract

Neodimium-doped Potassium-Gadolinium Tungstate crystal KGd(W0₄)₂ or Nd:KGW is a crystal whose structure allows high Nd doping (3 to 8%) without detrimental concentration quenching. In this way it can compete with Nd:YAG in terms of optical gain, despite a poorer thermal conductivity. We present here the results obtained at repetition rates up to 60 Hz. We tested several Nd:KGW rods from two different furnishers, with the same dimensions ( 6.35 x 76 mm) and different Nd dopant levels (from 2.8 to 8 at.%). The end faces were either flat/flat, parallel and AR-coated at 1.06 μm for the 1.06 μm emission or tilted (1°) and AR-coated for 1.06 and 1.35 μm for the 1.35 μm emission?

© 1998 IEEE