Near-optimal intense and powerful terahertz source by optical rectification in lithium niobate crystal

Using a 400 ?J ytterbium laser combined with novel pulse compression technique, we demonstrate state-of-the-art terahertz (THz) source from the tilted-pulse front pumping scheme in lithium niobate at room temperature record efficiency of 1.3% capable generating 74 mW average power and kV/cm focus. Key points this demonstration include use pump duration 280 fs combination stair-step echelon mirror an off-axis ellipsoidal mirror. This has unmatched characteristics intense powerful THz pulses same time remains highly scalable as compared to existing Ti:sapphire-based sources pumped millijoule range.