Efficient energy extraction from a diode-pumped Q-switched Tm,Ho:YLiF4 laser

The operation of a diode-laser pumped thulium, holmium yttrium-lithium-fluoride laser (Tm,Ho:YLF) in Q-switched mode is reported. Output energies of 200 microjoules in pulses of 22 ns duration are recorded at Q-switch frequencies commensurate with an effective upper laser level lifetime of 6 ms. This lifetime is appreciably longer than that observed in other hosts permitting stored energy extraction of 64 percent, close to the projected maximum performance from these materials.