First observation of optical gain on 5d-4f transitions of Ce3+ ions in up-conversionally pumped Ce3+, Pr3+:LiY0.3Lu0.7F4 mixed crystals

© 2016 Astro Ltd. The results of pump-probe experiments on the 5d-4f transitions of Ce3+ ions in up-conversionally pumped Ce3+, Pr3+:LiY0.3Lu0.7F4 crystals are presented and differential gain in the ultraviolet spectral range is demonstrated for the first time. The key parameters for the processes providing up-conversion pumping of the 5d states of Ce3+ ions in Ce3+, Pr3+:LiY0.3Lu0.7F4 mixed crystals via the 1D2 level of Pr3+ ions are estimated for the first time and the optimal pumping conditions are determined. The results of the pump-probe experiments and the mathematical modeling demonstrate that there are good prospects for the use of LiY0.3Lu0.7F4:Ce3+, Pr3+ crystals as an active medium of solid-state tunable UV lasers with up-conversion pumping