Effects of the gamma-ray irradiation on the structure, spectral and laser damage threshold of Nd:GSAG crystal

Abstract Nd:GSAG crystal was irradiated by 60Co gamma-ray with the irradiation doses of 0, 2, 10 and 20 Mrad, respectively, to investigate its radiation resistant properties. XRD and Raman spectra characterization results indicate that the crystal structure was unchanged by the irradiation. Therefore, the color change of the crystal caused by irradiation could be attributed to the formation of the color centers inside the crystal. Only slightly decreased of the transmittance and laser damage threshold of the crystal with the irradiation dose of 20 Mrad indicate the crystal is of excellent radiation resistant ability. All the results suggest that Nd:GSAG crystal can be considered as a potential laser gain medium for being used in radiant environment.