Yb-doped YLF and CaF2 crystal laser at room temperature

We present an investigation devoted to explore the potentiality, at room temperature, of a heavily-doped Yb:YLF (30% at.) and mildly-doped Yb:CaF2 (5% at.) crystals as laser gain materials, in quasi-Continuous Wave and Continuous Wave operation regime. In particular, we study the thermal behavior of the samples and their effects on the laser performance. Experimental data are supported by simulations of the thermally-induced effects, where the propagation of the pump source and the laser action in the sample are accounted for. Moreover, the influence of operation at high excitation density in Yb:YLF was investigated, in order to assess its potential impact on the laser performances. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.