Tunable alexandrite lasers: Development and performance

Some major recent developments in alexandrite laser research are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on key material characteristics, and their relationship to laser performance. Alexandrite´s favorable thermomechanical properties and high capacity for energy storage have led to laser performance levels that, in certain areas, exceed those of established solid-state laser sources. Here we review performance achievements for a variety of pulsed and CW laser configurations including single-mode, multimode, and mode-locked resonators, high-power amplifiers, and zig-zag slabs. In these configurations, operating performance levels have been demonstrated that are comparable to those of older, more familiar solid-state laser technologies. Alexandrite´s broad tunability offers additional advantages. Together with nonlinear frequency conversion processes, alexandrite lasers provide high-brightness output over most of the UV, visible, and near IR.