Non-cubic transparent ceramics for laser applications

Abstract

In polycrystalline ceramics composed of numerous crystal grains, the development of transparent ceramics, which involves minimizing internal scattering sources, holds significant promising for applications in high-average-power solid-state laser fields. However, in non-cubic materials with birefringence, scattering at grain boundaries occurs, making it challenging to achieve laser-quality transparency. Addressing this issue is expected to drive the development of novel laser materials, sources, and applied technologies. This paper provides an overview of the techniques and current status of non-cubic transparent ceramics while presenting the research findings of the authors on transparent ceramics composed of nanocrystalline grains.