title: Overview of transparent optical ceramics for high-energy lasers at NRL.
abstract: In this review, we present our recent research progress at the Naval Research Laboratory in the development of highly transparent and rugged ceramic window materials such as MgAl2O4 spinel and β-SiC; high-power solid-state laser gain materials based on sesquioxide such as Yb(3+):Y2O3, Yb(3+):Lu2O3, and Ho(3+):Lu2O3; and composite ceramics in the application for high-energy lasers. Various powder synthesis/purification methods and powder post-process techniques necessary to create high-purity powders are described. Ceramic fabrication processes and chemical, morphological, and optical properties of the ceramics developed at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) are highlighted. We also report high-efficiency lasing from a hot-pressed rare-earth sesquioxide single layer and composite ceramics made from coprecipitated powder.
authors.forename: Woohong
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.forename: Guillermo
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Villalobos
authors.forename: Colin
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Baker
authors.forename: Jesse
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Frantz
authors.forename: Brandon
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Shaw
authors.forename: Shyam
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bayya
authors.forename: Steven
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bowman
authors.forename: Bryan
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Sadowski
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hunt
authors.forename: Benjamin
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Rock
authors.forename: Ishwar
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Aggarwal
authors.forename: Jasbinder
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Sanghera