Epoxy matrix for solid-state dye laser applications

Abstract
The preparation and performance of an epoxy-based matrix impregnated with Pyrromethene 580 for solid-state dye laser applications are discussed. The matrix proved to be stable and efficient as a laser medium when pumped by a frequency-doubled, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with a 10-ns pulse width. Stability measurements were performed on a 1-mm-thick epoxy sample, doped with Pyrromethene 580 at a concentration of 4 × 10-3 M. When the sample was pumped at millijoule energy levels, the stability was measured to be ∼55,000 pulses from a single spot on the sample before the power dropped by a factor of half.