Laser amplification in an Yb : YAG active mirror with a significant temperature gradient

A time-dependent model of laser amplification in an Yb : YAG crystal is considered based on a system of balance equations, as well as radiation transfer and heat conduction equations. The model also takes into account the dependence of the laser characteristics of the gain medium on the injection wavelength and the effect of amplified spontaneous emission. This model is verified based on a diode-pumped amplifier with cryogenic cooling of active elements. The dependences of the gain on the pump pulse energy are experimentally measured for different amplification regimes and compared with simulation results.