Spectroscopic and laser properties of Tm3+ ions in Ca3(VO4)2 crystal

The spectroscopic properties of Tm3+ ions in Ca3(VO4)2 crystal were investigated and diode pumped tunable lasing was demonstrated. The maximum absorption and emission cross-sections for E⊥c at 3F4-3H6 2 µm transition were calculated to be ~1 × 10-20 cm2 and ~1.3 × 10-20 cm2 respectively. Noticeable 3H4-3F43H6-3F4 cross-relaxation was observed resulting in a slope laser efficiency up to 15% at ~1960 nm under 792 nm laser diode pumping. Broadband tuning of the oscillation wavelength within the 1850-2070 nm spectral range was realized.