Characteristics of a high-power yttrium aluminum garnet laser

A description is given of a high-power cw laser with different characteristics of an active element in the form of a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) crystal. A method for the measurement of the temperature distribution in the active element is suggested. The measured temperature profile is used to calculate the energy balance in the laser, distribution of the pumping in the active element, and thermal stresses induced in the element. An estimate is made of the concentration of Nd³⁺ ions optimal from the point of view of achieving homogeneous pumping of the active element.