Development of Single-Longitudinal-Mode Selection Technology for Solid-State Lasers

Abstract

Lasers with narrow linewidths and single frequencies are widely used in fields such as radar detection, nonlinear optics, and precision measurements. The demand for such lasers has promoted the rapid development of single-longitudinal-mode (SLM) selection technology. Here, we highlight the working principles of current mainstream SLM selection technologies and the recent advances in the field. We compare the characteristics of different SLM selection methods and list the challenges faced by these technologies.

A comprehensive review on the development and applications of narrow‐linewidth lasers

“…The twisted mode cavity is also based on this principle. 11 In 2004, Webster 56 et al demonstrated a 1064 nm frequency stabilized laser based on high-finesse FP etalons. The obtained output linewidth from the 1 kHz free-running Nd:YAG laser as the light source was as narrow as 0.46 Hz.…”

“…To eliminate the SHB effect, the beam is propagated along a single direction in the resonator to form a traveling wave. The twisted mode cavity is also based on this principle 11 …”

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] Coherence (spatial and temporal coherence), an important characteristic of lasers different from other light sources, has been a focus of research on laser techniques. 10,11 Spatial coherence describes the phase relationship between the points on the wave surface perpendicular to the beam propagation direction, which is a necessary premise for laser directivity. Temporal coherence is the phase relationship of the beam at different time points along the propagation direction, which is proportional to the monochromaticity of the laser.…”

“…Since the 1960s, lasers have developed rapidly in terms of wavelength diversification, power scaling (average and peak value), and miniaturization, promoting the rapid development of manufacturing, life science, information technology, scientific research, and defense 1–9 . Coherence (spatial and temporal coherence), an important characteristic of lasers different from other light sources, has been a focus of research on laser techniques 10,11 . Spatial coherence describes the phase relationship between the points on the wave surface perpendicular to the beam propagation direction, which is a necessary premise for laser directivity.…”

A stochastic nonlinear model of the dynamics of actively Q-switched lasers

“…in [27]. Several techniques have been invented [31] to select a single longitudinal mode and avoid pulse energy variations resulting from mode-hopping in a mode competition. Single-mode models assume a single effective gain and loss and represent radiation by one longitudinal mode, preventing the simulation of spectral selection with the benefit of shorter overall simulation times.…”