Spectroscopic, thermal and cw dual-wavelength laser characteristics of Nd:LaF3 single crystal

•Cw dual-wavelength laser of Nd:LaF3 at 1040 nm and ∼1065 nm was detailed demonstrated for the first time.•A maximum output power of 302 mW was obtained with a slope efficiency of 18.5% with respect to the pump power.•Thermal conductivity of Nd:LaF3 crystal was detailed studied in the range of 300–575 K for the first time.

A Nd-doped LaF3 crystal was grown by Czochralski method, and the rocking curves of (0 0 2) and (1 1 0) diffraction planes show good crystallinity quality of the as-grown crystal. Room-temperature fluorescence spectrum and transmittance spectrum of Nd:LaF3 crystal were investigated, both indicating probable dual-wavelength emissions at ∼1.04 μm and ∼1.06 μm. The thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity of Nd:LaF3 crystal were detailed studied. Cw dual-wavelength laser operation of Nd:LaF3 single crystal at 1040 nm and around 1065 nm with LD pumping was demonstrated. A maximum output power of 302 mW was obtained with a slope efficiency of about 18.5% with respect to the pump power. The results of our study indicate the Nd:LaF3 crystal a promising laser crystal.