May 21 2013
The YAG (yttrium aluminium garnet) laser can be doped with chromium and neodymium in order to enhance the absorption characteristics of the laser. The NdCrYAG laser is a solid state laser. Chromium ion (Cr3+) has a broad absorption band; it absorbs the energy and transfers it to the neodymium ions (Nd3+) by way of dipole-dipole interactions. Wavelength of 1.064 µm is emitted by this laser.
The laser action of Nd-YAG laser was first demonstrated at the Bell Laboratories in the year 1964. The NdCrYAG laser is pumped by a solar radiation. By doping with chromium, the energy absorption capacity of the laser is enhanced and ultra short pulses are emitted.
Typical applications of this laser include production of nanopowders and as a pumping source for other lasers. The physical properties and applications of this laser are discussed in the sections below.
Laser Properties
| Laser Properties |
| Laser type |
Solid |
| Pump source |
Solar Radiation |
| Operating wavelength |
1.064 µm |
Physical and Chemical Properties
| Physical and Chemical Properties |
| Chemical formula |
Nd3+:Cr3+:Y3Al5O12 |
| Crystal structure |
Cubic |
| Melting point |
1970°C |
| Hardness |
8-8.5 |
| Thermal conductivity |
10-14 W/mK |
| Young's modulus |
280 GPa |
Applications
The primary application of Nd:Cr:YAG laser is as a pumping source. It is used in solar pumped lasers, which would be used as a solar-powered satellite system.
Another application of Nd:Cr:YAG laser is in experimental production of nanopowder.
References