Polarized spectral properties and laser demonstration of Tm^3+-doped LiGd(MoO_4)_2 crystal

Trivalent thulium-doped LiGd(MoO4)2 single crystals have been grown by the Czochralski method. Room-temperature polarized absorption and fluorescence spectra of the crystals were analyzed. The fluorescence decay curves of the 1G4, 3H4, and 3F4 multiplets were measured, and the decay mechanisms of the 1G4 and 3H4 multiplets were discussed. Spectroscopic parameters related to the laser operation around 1.90 μm via the 3F4→3H6 transition have been evaluated. Finally, end-pumped by a Ti:sapphire laser at 795 nm, the room-temperature quasi-continuous wave 1.9 μm laser emission was demonstrated with a slope efficiency of 28%.