Calculation of temperature distribution and thermo-optical effects in double-end-pumped slab laser

Abstract

The temperature distribution and thermo-optical effects in a double-end-pumped slab laser are investigated analytically. The theoretical model is given by considering heat generation on both sides of an active medium due to pumping. With account for the pump beam divergence and the heat load, the heat conduction equation is solved, and the temperature distribution and thermal effects, such as thermal lensing and thermal stress, are obtained. The results are applied to a typical Nd:YVO 4 laser crystal slab and discussed. ©2011 Springer Science+Business Media, Inc.