Method for enhancement of the spatial homogeneity of laser radiation using polarization coupling out of radiation

A wedge-shaped phase plate was used in a laser resonator to improve the homogeneity of the intensity distribution over the cross section of the output beam from a YSGG:Cr:Nd laser using polarization coupling out of radiation, operated under conditions of a strong induced thermal birefringence in the active element. The local intensity maxima were then approximately halved compared with those using a quarter-wave phase plate in the resonator.