Abstract

We have measured refractive index, thermal expansion, and dn/dT for identically prepared samples of LiSAF, LiCAF, and LiSGaF to facilitate direct comparison of these laser hosts. Refractive index was measured using the method of minimum deviation at visible wavelengths, and thermal expansion and dn/dT were measured by means of optical interference over the temperature range 20C-100C. All three materials exhibited strong anisotropy in thermal expansion, and to a lesser extent in dn/dT. LiSAF displayed the largest birefringence, with LiCAF showing almost none.

© 1999 Optical Society of America