Optimization of the duration of pulses used to pump neodymium glass lasers under Q-switching conditions

Large rectangular active elements made of LGS-247-2 neodymium glass were investigated. The optimal duration of the pump pulses (generated by an INP-18/250-I flashlamp) was determined experimentally and a simple method was developed for calculating this duration. The agreement between the calculated and experimental results confirmed the suitability of the proposed method for optimization of the pump pulse duration in various laser systems operating under Q-switching conditions.