Enhancement of Optical Conversion Efficiency in Solid-State Laser Systems through an Advanced Cavity Design by Using Borosilicate Glass

Öz

The optical conversion efficiency (OCE) of a laser refers to the effectiveness of a laser system in converting electrical energy into usable laser radiation. Among the key parameters affecting this efficiency is the design of the optical cavity. This study examines the enhancement of optical conversion efficiency in a flash-lamp-pumped GentlelasePlus Alexandrite solid-state laser system through modification of the optical cavity structure. The original fused silica (quartz) cavity frame was replaced with a borosilicate (BK7) glass frame while maintaining the existing three-hole resonator configuration. The primary objectives are to improve efficiency and extend the operational lifetime of the laser system. Laser operation is evaluated at driving voltages of 900 Vdc and 1070 Vdc, and the resulting output energies are measured to calculate optical conversion efficiency (η_OCE). For an input energy of 1 J, the measured efficiencies were 0.1203 % for BK7 and 0.1378 % for quartz. At an input energy of 10 J, η_OCE values of 0.9407 % and 0.8935 % were obtained for BK7 and quartz, respectively. The results indicate that BK7 glass provides a 0.047 % higher efficiency compared to quartz and contributes to a 13 % overall improvement in system performance. Due to its lower material cost, ease of fabrication, and favorable optical performance, BK7 glass is proposed as a practical and cost-effective alternative to fused silica for optical cavity frames in Alexandrite laser systems.

Anahtar Kelimeler

• Alexandrite laser
• Borosilicate glass
• Flash-lamp-pumped
• Optical conversion efficiency

Kaynakça

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