Visualization of inhomogeneities in Ti:Sapphire laser medium

\nThis work presents innovative methods for visualizing inhomogeneities and stress distributions in Ti:Sa (titanium-doped sapphire) crystals, which are challenging to assess due to their birefringent nature. Two experimental approaches were developed: the first enables two-dimensional mapping of the Figure of Merit (FoM) and absorption at wavelengths of 532 nm, 780 nm, and 1550 nm, revealing variations in absorption across the crystal. The second experiment utilizes circularly polarized light and polarization imaging to detect internal stress and defects. The results demonstrate the successful visualization of lateral absorption, stress, and core features within the crystals, offering insights into their optical quality. These techniques provide new possibility for evaluation of laser materials, with significant implications for improving the manufacturing and selection processes of Ti:Sa crystals in advanced laser applications.\n