We have explored rare-earth-ion-doped integrated amplifiers and lasers on a silicon chip. Such lowcost, compact components are useful for signal generation or amplification within an integrated optical circuit (Fig. 1). In particular, Er 3+ -doped waveguides provide light generation and amplification at the all-important telecom wavelengths (see our recent review paper [1]). We have demonstrate...

Cryogenically cooled solid-state lasers promise a revolution in power scalability while maintaining a good beam quality because of significant improvements in efficiency and thermo-optic properties. This is particularly true for Yb lasers because of their relatively low quantum defect and relatively broadband absorption even at cryogenic temperatures. Thermo-optic properties of host materials, ...

This paper reviews the progress on rare-earth-ion doped lasers in the wavelength range near 3 μm, with an emphasis on fiber-based devices. Er and Ho lasers are discussed.

An Er: YAG laser is a near infrared laser with a wavelength of 2.94m. This wavelength is identical to the peak wavelength of the light most readily absorbed by water. When used on living tissue with a sufficient water content, this laser causes a rapid evaporation of the water in just the most superficial layer of tissue, without greatly affecting the tissue in the neighboring area. The present...

BACKGROUND This study examined the effect of roughening of the root surface using an erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er: YAG) laser on the binding strength of teeth undergoing root canal treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS Ninety single-rooted teeth were used and assigned randomly to 9 groups (n=10 each). Root canals were prepared using the FlexMaster rotary system. An Er: YAG laser was appli...

Introduction: Pearly penile papules are common, benign lesions that may be a source of concern and embarrassment for many men. Therapeutic options such as electrodessication, shave excision, cryotherapy, and CO2 laser ablation have demonstrated variable degrees of efficacy, and may result in scarring and hypopigmentation. Holmium: YAG lasers are widely available to most urologists, and have ope...

Lasers range from those activated by natural gases, elements, molecules or man-made crystals to those that measure distance to the moon, create laser-guided warfare and record the price of our own groceries. Over the past several years one has seen a strong emergence of lasers in the field of dentistry. Lasers are not, however, new to the field as some of the in vitro studies report back to 196...

We present details of the homo-epitaxial growth of Yb:YAG onto a <100> oriented YAG substrate by pulsed laser deposition. Material characterization and initial laser experiments are also reported, including the demonstration of laser action from the 15 μm-thick planar waveguide generating 11.5 W of output power with a slope efficiency of 48%. This work indicates that under appropriate condition...