Crystal quality and optical properties for Nd:GdVO4 single crystals by a floating zone method

Abstract Single crystals of neodymium-doped gadolinium orthovanadate (Nd:GdVO4) were successfully grown by the floating zone method (FZ) with an infrared convergence type heater. These crystal quality and optical properties are sufficient for application to a laser host. Distribution of (Nd/Nd + Gd) concentration by 50 mm in the growth direction was 0.20 ± 0.02 against a target concentration of 0.20. Distribution of extinction ratio at 633 nm by 50 mm in the growth direction was 51 ± 2 dB. Laser performance for these crystals with a-cut were measured. The maximum slope efficiency was 65% and the maximum output power was 3.4 W with continuous wave at 808 nm.