Spectroscopic and laser properties of the near-infrared tunable laser material Yb3+-doped CaF2 crystal

High-quality oxygen-free 5 mol %Yb3+-doped CaF2 single crystal grown by the Czochralski method has been studied for its broadband absorption and emission properties. We present its spectroscopy at room and low temperatures and laser operation will be demonstrated around 1.05 mu m with a slope efficiency of 57% with various transmission output couplers. The laser wavelength could be tuned between 1030 and 1070 nm.