Ultrashort Pulse Thin-Disk Lasers and Amplifiers

Abstract

This Chapter deals with the generation and the amplification of ultrashort pulses in mode-locked oscillators and multipass amplifiers based on the thin-disk laser design. The first section covers soliton mode locking of a thin-disk laser employing semiconductor saturable absorber mirrors (SESAMs). Advantages over Kerr-lens mode locking and the prevention of Q-switching instabilities are also addressed. Results with Yb:YAG and Yb:KYW as laser materials are presented along with possible applications. The second section treats pulse amplification in both geometrical multipass systems and regenerative amplifiers. The processes of pumping and amplification are explained with the help of a simple model. Important issues for the design of the resonator and the Pockels cell are also part of this section. The third section discusses power scaling of the thin-disk laser by increasing the mode area. Scaling limits like amplified spontaneous emission and thermally induced phase distortions are considered.