Research in garnet crystal (GSGG) development. Final report, 1 May 1984-31 December 1984

Technical Report · Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1985

OSTI ID:5233408

Belt, R F; Uhrin, R; Vemuri, K

This program describes the crystal growth of neodymium and chromium doped simultaneously into the host crystal of gadolinium scandium gallium garnet (Nd/sup 3 +/, Cr/sup 3/+:Gd/sub 3/(Sc,Ga)/sub 2/ Ga/sub 3/O/sub 12/ or Nd,Cr:GSGG). Ten experimental boules were grown by the Czochralski method at a diameter of 1.0-1.2 inch. Special attention was given to congruently melting compositions, the Nd and Cr content, growth rate, atmosphere of growth, control of the solid liquid interface, and boule orientation. For each of our crystals a (0.25 x 3.00) inch cylindrical laser rod was extracted, fabricated, tested passively, and delivered to the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for active testing. At the same time, boule samples were examined for optical absorption, loss at 1.06..mu..m, refractive index birefringence, and other physical properties. Results have demonstrated that optical quality can approach that of Nd:YAG in rod form. The increased efficiency of Nd,Cr:GSGG was confirmed to be about 2 times that of Nd:YAG. We also show that 2 inch diameter crystal boules can be grown successfully. It appears that larger boules are feasible for slab laser experiments.

• Research Organization: Litton Industries, Morris Plains, NJ (USA). Airtron Div.
• DOE Contract Number: AC08-84DP40198
• OSTI ID: 5233408
• Report Number(s): DOE/DP/40198-1; ON: DE85016125
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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