High-performance diode-tandem-pumped actively Q-switched Tm:YAP laser

A high-performance diode-tandem-pumped actively Q-switched Tm:YAP laser is demonstrated, in which configuration dual Tm:YAP crystals are pumped by two separate diode lasers, respectively. A maximum output power of 10.6 W with corresponding pulse width of 37 ns, pulse energy of 2.12 mJ, and peak power of 57.3 kW is achieved at a pulse repetition rate of 5 kHz. For comparison, an actively Q-switched Tm:YAP laser with a single gain crystal double-end pumped is set up, from which a maximum output power of 6.8 W with a pulse width of 45 ns, a pulse energy of 1.36 mJ and a peak power of 28.3 kW is obtained at the same pulse repetition rate of 5 kHz. The experimental results clearly reveal the effect of diode-tandem-pumping regime on lowering down the thermal load of gain medium.