Numerical optimisation of a high-energy end-pumped Ho:YLF slab amplifier

Abstract

Single frequency 2µm sources are useful in varied applications including remote sensing, spectroscopy and nonlinear conversion to the mid-infrared. However, to generate high energy pulses from a 2 µm oscillator is challenging, which is typically overcome by implementing a master oscillator power amplifier approach [1]. We have previously demonstrated a single frequency Ho:YLF laser which produced up to 70 mJ per pulse [2] at 2064nm and subsequently developed a 200W Tm:YLF slab laser to be used as pump source for a power amplifier.