Study of the optical bistability in the laser oscillation of Yb:GdVO4 crystal

We have studied the effect of optical bistability exhibited in the laser oscillation of Yb:GdVO4 crystal, revealing the complexities arising from the coexistence and switching of σ and π polarization states characteristic of this crystal. In terms of absorbed pump power, the range for bistable operation can be in excess of 1 W, while the output power generated at the up-threshold can reach as high as 0.71 W. The studies also show significant influence of the Yb concentration, the crystal thickness, the output coupling, and the resonator configuration on the bistable laser operation.