Abstract

Diamond is a highly attractive laser material due to its exceptional optical and thermal properties. Its high thermal conductivity, low thermal expansion and wide transparency are especially suitable for high-average power laser applications. In comparison to more mature Raman crystalline materials, diamond has demonstrated the highest recorded output powers for both continuous wave [1] and pulsed [2] operation. In addition, when combined with well-established Nd laser technology, diamond’s 1332 cm⁻¹ Raman frequency provides a convenient and efficient route to the eye-safe spectral region via its second Stokes shift [3].

© 2013 IEEE