Tunable visible solid-state lasers based on second-harmonic generation of LiF:F_2^- in potassium titanyl phosphate

Abstract

A new broadly tunable visible solid-state laser is reported. Wavelengths between 550 and 610 nm are generated by intracavity frequency doubling of tuned and free-running room-temperature pulsed $\mathrm{LiF}:{{\mathrm{F}}_2}^{-}$ lasers in potassium titanyl phosphate. Second-harmonic energy of 1.3 mJ has been achieved, corresponding to a fundamental-to-second-harmonic conversion efficiency of 20%. Operation is optimized with respect to $\mathrm{LiF}:{{\mathrm{F}}_2}^{-}$ laser parameters.