LiB_3O_5: a highly efficient frequency converter for Ti:sapphire lasers

Abstract

Efficient second-harmonic generation in a LiB(3)O(5) crystal over the spectral range of a Ti:sapphire laser is demonstrated. The angular acceptance and damage threshold of the LiB(3)O(5) crystal are measured and calculated, and a 30% conversion efficiency is achieved (with a 5-mm-long crystal). The potential for increasing the conversion efficiency of second-harmonic generation at the edges of the spectral range of the Ti:sapphire laser is shown.