Nd:KGW Description
Nd:KGW (Neodymium-doped Potassium-Gadolinium Tungstate Crystal) is a type of laser crystal used in solid-state lasers. It consists of a host crystal made of potassium-gadolinium tungstate (KGW) doped with neodymium (Nd) ions. The neodymium ions provide the laser with optical gain, allowing it to amplify light and generate a laser beam.
Nd:KGW crystals are known for their favorable laser properties, including a broad absorption band, high fluorescence lifetime, and low threshold for laser action. They can be used in various applications such as laser pumping, laser communication, medical aesthetics, laser manufacturing, and scientific research. The specific characteristics and performance of Nd:KGW crystals can be tailored by adjusting the doping concentration of neodymium and other parameters during the crystal growth process.
Nd: KGW Specifications
Standard Dopant
|
Nd: 3%, 5%, 8%
|
Orientation
|
<010>
|
Wavefront Distortion
|
< λ/4 per inch @633nm
|
Parallelism
|
<20 arc seconds
|
Perpendicularity
|
<5 arc minutes
|
Surface Quality
|
10/5
|
End Coating
|
R<0.2%
|
Surface Flatness
|
l/8@632.8nm
|
Maximum length
|
50mm
|
Notes:
1. To inquire or order a finished crystal, please provide the specifications as listed above. For most applications, we only need to know the following:
1) Nd-dopant concentration; 2) Sizes; 3) Surface quality; 4) Coating.
2. For special requests, please provide a detailed specification for evaluation and fabrication.
Nd: KGW Applications
1. Solid-state lasers: Nd:KGW is commonly used as a gain medium in solid-state lasers.
2. Spectroscopy: Nd:KGW crystals are used in various spectroscopic techniques like Raman spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and time-resolved spectroscopy.
3. Optical parametric amplifiers: Nd:KGW crystals can be used to construct optical parametric amplifiers (OPAs) that generate tunable and high-energy pulses in the mid-infrared (MIR) spectral range. OPAs find applications in ultrafast spectroscopy, biomedical imaging, and coherent control experiments.
4. Holography: The exceptional optical properties of Nd:KGW make it suitable for holography applications. It can be used as a holographic recording medium to create three-dimensional holograms and holographic optical elements (HOEs), which find applications in holographic data storage, security, and optical telecommunications.
5. Optical communications: The tunable lasing properties of Nd:KGW crystals make them useful in optical communication systems. They can be employed as a gain medium in tunable lasers for wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) and other communication technologies.
6. Ophthalmology: Nd:KGW lasers have been used in ophthalmology for treatments like retinal photocoagulation and vitreolysis.
7. LIDAR systems: Nd:KGW crystals can be used in laser-induced detection and ranging (LIDAR) systems. These systems use lasers to measure distances, map topography, and detect objects. Nd:KGW lasers enable high-energy pulses for long-range LIDAR applications in atmospheric research, remote sensing, and autonomous vehicles.
Nd: KGW Package
Nd:KGW (Neodymium-doped Potassium-Gadolinium Tungstate Crystal) are securely packaged in moisture-resistant, anti-static, and shock-absorbing materials. Custom packaging options, such as cleanroom packaging, are also available for sensitive applications.
Nd: KGW FAQs
Q1 What are the lasing wavelengths of Nd:KGW crystals?
Nd:KGW typically operates at:
- 1067 nm: Standard wavelength for industrial and medical applications
- 532 nm (via frequency doubling): Green lasers for precision work and displays
- 1341 nm: Used in specific scientific and medical applications
Q2 Can Nd:KGW crystals be coated?
Yes, Nd:KGW crystals can be coated with:
- Anti-reflective (AR) coatings to optimize transmission
- High-reflective (HR) coatings for laser cavity applications
- Custom coatings designed for specific laser setups
Q3 What are the advantages of Nd:KGW compared to other laser crystals?
- High Gain: Higher emission cross-section compared to Nd:YAG, enabling efficient lasing.
- Broad Absorption Bandwidth: Ideal for diode-pumping at various wavelengths.
- Excellent Thermal Conductivity: Enables stable operation at high power levels.
- Ultrafast Pulse Generation: Suitable for femtosecond and picosecond laser systems.
- Superior Beam Quality: Delivers high-intensity, well-focused beams.