Yb3+-doped KLu(WO4)2, Nb:RbTiOPO4 and KGd(PO3)4 crystals. Growth, characterization and laser operation

Macrodefect-free samples of Yb3+:KLu(WO4)2, Yb3+:Nb:RbTiOPO4 and Yb3+:KGd(PO3)4 laser crystals were grown using the Top Seeded Solution Growth - Slow Cooling technique. Structural and morphological studies related with the three materials were carried out and discussed. The dispersion of the refractive indices was measured and Sellmeier equations were constructed which are valid in the UV-Vis-IR range. The Stark splitting of the two electronic states of trivalent ytterbium was determined and the CW laser generation was demonstrated in these hosts. This paper shows a review of the main results achieved in FiCMA-FiCNA-URV laboratories in relation with these laser materials in the last years.