Broadband (∼300 nm) optical gain in the ZAS (ZrO2-Al2O3-SiO2) glass activated by chromium

The broadband optical gain peaking around 1100 nm has been registered in the ZAS glass activated by Cr3+ ions. The gain spectrum spreads over ∼300 nm range and on the short wavelength side it is accompanied by the excited state absorption (ESA) of the maximum around 750 nm. The ZAS glass, being designed as a parent glass for more sophisticated glass ceramic (awaited to be a promising laser medium), contrary to this ceramic, appeared itself to be interesting gain medium.