Growth and optical properties of self-frequency-doubling laser crystal Yb:LuAl3(BO3)4

Single crystal of Yb:LuAl3(BO3)4(Yb:LuAB) was grown by the flux method for the first time. The cell parameters of the grown crystal were estimated by X-ray diffraction analysis. The result indicates the symmetry of trigonal space group R32, with lattice parameters a=b=9.26372 Å, c=7.21405 Å, V=536.14 Å3, and Z=4. The absorption and emission spectra of Yb:LuAB crystal at room temperature has also been studied. The fluorescence lifetime for Yb:LuAB crystal is about 1.48 ms. The heat capacity was measured from 25 to 500 °C. Its second harmonic generation efficiency in LuAl3(BO3)4 crystal is 3–4 times that of KDP crystal. These results show that Yb:LuAB crystal would be a potential self-frequency-doubling laser crystal.