Spectroscopy of Ni2+-doped garnets and perovskites for solid state lasers

Abstract The spectroscopic properties of various Ni 2+ -doped garnets and perovskites are investigated. In the garnets Ni 2+ is found to occupy both octahedral and tetrahedral sites, whereas in the perovskites only octahedral sites exist. The spectroscopic data indicate, that GGG: Ni, Zr and YAlO 3 : Ni, Ti are the most promising materials for laser operation. The quantum efficiencies are nearly unity and the emission cross sections are twice that of MgO: Ni. However, laser action has not yet been achieved. The reason may be excited state absorption.