Abstract
A theoretical model for the ultrashort-pulse (USP) generation by lasers with saturable absorbers is presented. The gain medium is assumed to be a two-level system whereas the absorber is described by a four-level system which is characterized by a two-stage absorption process and the pertinent relaxation times. Laser dynamical equations are developed in the rate-equation approximation and boundary conditions appropriate for an unidirectional ring cavity are established. Evolution of USP is investigated for different combinations of parameter values appropriate for solid-state laser systems by computer simulation, employing a finite difference approximation for the dynamical equations. It is shown that USP output is attainable even if the cross-section of the excited-state absorption isgreater than that of the ground-state absorption and the laser is operating just above threshold. In fact, it is found that through the participation of a strong excited-state absorption the discrimination against satellite pulses is enhanced so that single-pulse output is more achievable. Furthermore, it is proposed that single picosecond pulses may be obtainable from relatively broad initial peaks by utilizing the high pulse-selection and pulse-shortening efficiency of the absorber due to the contribution of the excited-state absorption. The applicability of the present model to singlet-triplet crossing and photoisomer formation is also discussed.
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Work supported in part by the National Research Council of Canada under grant No. A6005.
This author is now with Welwyn Canada Limited, London, Ontario, Canada.