Cover story: Cao W H, Li Z, Shi C K, et al. Overview of research and development of Pr3+ doped solid-state lasers[J]. Opto-Electron Eng, 2022, 49(4): 210364

The laser is one of the greatest inventions in modern science.The research and application of lasers had a greatly impact on scientific research, communication, economy, medicine, military and other fields. The laser greatly promoted technological innovation and social progress, and the reform of human lifestyles.There are many kinds of lasers, but solid-state lasers have the characteristics of compact structure, sturdiness and durability, high output energy and high peak power.The Pr³⁺ in lanthanide rare earth ions has rich laser emission spectrum lines compared with other rare earth ions due to its special spectral characteristics.

Professor Zhiping Cai and his research team from the School of Electronic Science and Technology, Xiamen University review of research and development of Pr³⁺ doped solid-state lasers. Firstly, the research progress of continuous-wave Pr³⁺ doped solid-state laser was introduced. With the in-depth research on Pr³⁺ doped materials characteristics and laser technology, as well as the rapid development of pump source technology, the laser power of Pr³⁺ doped solid-state laser has been continuously optimized and improved. Secondly, the research progress of pulsed Pr³⁺doped solid-state lasers were introduced. Pulse lasers have the characteristics of narrow pulse width and peak power, which have an important and extensive application in the field of atomic spectrum research, quantum information and so on. Then, the research progress of single longitudinal model Pr³⁺ solid-state laser was introduced. Single longitudinal mode laser has the characteristics of narrow spectral line output and low phase noise. Finally, they introduced the current status of Pr³⁺ doped solid-state lasers and the future prospects.