Distributed mode filtering rod fiber amplifier delivering 292W with improved mode stability

We demonstrate a high power fiber (85 μm core) amplifier delivering up to 292 Watts of average output power using a mode-locked 30 ps source at 1032 nm. Utilizing a single mode distributed mode filter bandgap rod fiber, we demonstrate 44% power improvement before the threshold-like onset of mode instabilities by operating the rod fiber in a leaky waveguide regime. We investigate the guiding dynamics of the rod fiber and report a distinct bandgap blue-shifting as function of increased signal power level. Furthermore, we theoretically analyze the guiding dynamics of the DMF rod fiber and explain the bandgap blue-shifting with thermally induced refractive index change of the refractive index profile.