Laser properties of Nd:FAP and Nd:S-FAP ceramics at 1.06 and 1.33 μm

Abstract The laser properties of Nd-doped Ca 10 (PO 4 ) 6 F 2 (FAP) and Sr 10 (PO 4 ) 6 F 2 (S-FAP) ceramics with a hexagonal (non-cubic) crystal structure were investigated at 1.06 and 1.33 μm wavelength ranges. Slope efficiencies of 10.1% and 11.7% were obtained for FAP and S-FAP ceramics at 1063 and 1059 nm, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, slope efficiency of over 10% is the highest among non-cubic ceramic materials. Additionally, laser oscillations at 1335 and 1327 nm were observed in FAP and S-FAP ceramics, respectively. The results of this study will be valuable for future advancements in achieving higher power and efficient operation of non-cubic laser ceramics.