Multi-Wavelength Resonant Pumping Of Er:Yag Lasers For Energy Efficient Trace Gas Detection Systems

The multiplicity of narrow absorption lines of erbium ions in the spectral range from 1450 to 1540 nm is exploited for the development of a highly efficient Er:YAG laser emitting at 1645 nm. Resonant pumping of the active medium with an absorption efficiency of up to 96% is achieved using a novel diode laser system consisting of two narrowband modules with a combined output power of 80 W ex fiber. The utilization of multiple pump wavelengths allows for both substantial power scaling and reduction of the laser threshold, thus providing a low power consuming laser system feasible for LIDAR applications.