Thermal properties measurement and laser operation of a new Yb: Gd0.68Lu0.32VO4 crystal.

A new series mixed vanadate crystals, Yb:Gd(x)Lu(1-x)VO(4) (x=0.2, 0.35, 0.53, 0.68 and 0.84), were grown by the Czochralski method. The thermal conductivities of these crystals were measured from room temperature to 280?C, and the thermal conductivities of Yb:Gd(0.68)Lu(0.32)VO(4) at room temperature are 6.4 and 6.9 W m(-1)K(-1) along a- and c-axis, respectively. The material constants of Yb:Gd(x)Lu(1-x)VO(4) series crystals were estimated. The properties of Yb:Gd(x)Lu(1-x)VO(4) series crystals were compared with those of Yb:LuVO(4) and Yb:GdVO(4) crystals. Laser output power of 1.25 W at 1031 nm was obtained with a slope efficiency of 26% by use of diode pumping for Yb:Gd(0.68)Lu(0.32)VO(4) crystal.