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

Abstract
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 220 μJ 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%, close to the projected maximum performance from these materials.