We published a new paper in Optics Express!
In the article entitled „Mid-infrared generation via Raman soliton self-frequency shift in fluoride fibers: a comparative study” we report on nonlinear frequency conversion of Cr:ZnS laser in fluoride fibers.
Spectra generated in different fluoride fibers (F1 – F6) compared with the output of our Cr:ZnS laser.
In the article „Mid-infrared generation via Raman soliton self-frequency shift in fluoride fibers: a comparative study” that has just been published in Optics Express, we demonstrate mid-infrared generation extending up to 4 μm, achieved through Raman soliton self-frequency shift (SSFS) in commercially available fluoride fibers. Utilizing 30 fs pulses from a mode-locked Cr:ZnS oscillator, we conducted a detailed comparative analysis of six distinct fluoride fibers from all leading manufacturers. By identifying the optimal fiber configuration, we successfully pushed the fundamental soliton to 4 μm, marking, to the best of our knowledge, the broadest spectral range achieved via SSFS in fluoride fibers using a Cr:ZnS oscillator. In addition, we employed numerical simulations to explore the physical constraints associated with extending the spectral coverage beyond 4 μm. Furthermore, we analyzed the relative intensity noise properties of the generated mid-IR radiation, revealing an exceptionally stable output limited by the performance of current mid-IR photodetectors. The novel findings of our comprehensive study provide guidance to the community for optimizing SSFS-based frequency conversion based on rapidly developing Cr:ZnS/Se laser technology. The resulting low-noise, tunable mid-IR radiation spanning 2.5–4 μm offers significant potential for applications like trace gas detection and frequency comb spectroscopy, paving the way for advancements in mid-IR technologies based on Cr:ZnS/Se lasers.
Stay tuned for applications of our mid-IR source!