Visible quasi-phase-matched harmonic generation by electric-field-poled lithium niobate

Laser-based displays and illumination systems are applications which can capitalize on the brightness and efficiency of semiconductor lasers, provided that there is a means for converting their output into the visible spectrum. Semiconductor laser manufacturers can adjust their processes to achieve desired wavelengths in several near-infrared bands; an equally agile conversion technology is needed to permit display and illumination system manufacturers to choose visible wavelengths appropriate to their products. Quasi- phasematched second harmonic generation has the potential to convert high-power semiconductor laser output to the visible with 50% optical-to-optical conversion efficiency in a single-pass bulk configuration, using electric-field-poled lithium niobate. Lithographically- defined electrode structures on the positive or negative polar faces of this crystal are used to control the formation of domains under the influence of electric fields applied using those electrode structures. The quality of the resulting domain patterns not only controls the efficiency of quasi-phasematched second harmonic generation, but also controls the degree of resistance to photorefractive damage. We present a model which is used to identify the optimum electrode duty cycle and applied poling field for domain patterning and compare the predicted domain duty cycle with experimental results. We discuss factors which contribute to inhomogeneous domain pattern quality for samples poled under otherwise ideal conditions and our progress in limiting their influence. Finally, we present optical characterization of a 2.4 mm long 500 micrometers thick sample which produced an average second harmonic power of 1.3 W of 532 nm green from a 9 W average power Q-switched 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser in a loose- focus single-pass configuration.