Crystal growth, spectroscopic studies and laser operation of Yb3+-doped potassium lutetium tungstate

Single crystals of Yb3+-doped monoclinic potassium lutetium tungstate were grown with several dopant concentrations (0.5%, 5% and 10% in the solution). Optical absorption and emission measurements were performed at room and cryogenic temperatures and the upper level lifetime was estimated. Highly efficient room temperature laser generation in the 1 μm region was achieved with this new Yb-host in the continuous-wave regime, both with Ti:sapphire and diode laser pumping.