Solid-state Raman laser generating <1 ns, multi-kilohertz pulses at 1096 nm

A new Raman oscillator is described based on a diode end-pumped Nd:YAG laser and an intra-cavity rubidium titanyl phosphate (RTP) crystal that serves as the active Q-switch. This compact and robust laser generates <1 ns, kilohertz pulses at 1096 nm with a 1064 nm pump and has potential for ∼1480 nm eye-safe operation using a 1340 nm pump. Based on rate equation modelling a Raman gain of ≈1.7–2.2 cm/GW at 1064 nm is estimated for RTP.