Abstract

Up to now UV solid state lasers are realised on the basis of 5d-4f transitions of Ce³⁺ [1]. The aim of this work is the development of a new laser material in the UV and VIS spectral range making use of 5d-4f transitions of divalent rare earth. The optical transitions between the 4fⁿ⁻¹-5d state and the 4fⁿ state involve energy levels of different parity and are therefore electric dipole allowed. Thus high transition rates are expected. Furthermore, the strong electron-phonon coupling yields broad emission and excitation bands. In the past, especially Sm²⁺ and Eu²⁺ ions were thoroughly investigated, whereas Tm²⁺ is difficult to stabilise.

© 2000 IEEE