Switchable Gaussian and vortex beams via spot-defect control in an Nd:YAG oscillator and subsequent KTA-OPO
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Tunable laser sources capable of controlling the spatial structure of light fields are of great significance for multimodal laser physics and structured beam studies. To achieve efficient and flexible mode switching, we for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, propose and demonstrate an electro-optic Q-switching Nd:YAG laser oscillator capable of switching between Gaussian and vortex beams through spot-defect modulation. By introducing a spot-defect on the surface of a quarter-wave plate and adjusting its rotation angle, rapid switching between Gaussian and vortex beams is realized within the stable Q-switching operation region, yielding pulse energies of 4.08 mJ and 4.10 mJ for the Gaussian and vortex beams, respectively, at a repetition rate of 1 kHz. Furthermore, when employed as the pump source for a KTiOAsO 4 -based optical parametric oscillator (OPO), the system maintains consistent mode-switching behavior and excellent output performance in the mid-infrared region (∼3.5 µm).
Source: Optics Express
DOI: 10.1364/oe.581909
Authors: Zhuang Jin, Kailin Shang, Disheng Wei, Jun Meng, Gaoyou Liu, Zhenhua Cong, Zhaojun Liu
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,270
Awards: G2208214676, G7570208619, G932560552
OpenAlex ID: W4416455132