Evaluation of thermal birefringence power loss in the laser-diode-pumped Nd:glass laser

A 3D analysis code of thermal birefringence in solid-state lasers was developed. Basic equations include thermal conduction, absorption of laser energy, thermal stress and thermal birefringence. Relative phase shift induced by thermal effects are measured and found to be in good agreement with quantitative simulation results. Edge effects of thermal birefringence are quantitatively estimated by 3D simulation. Those are unable to be estimated by 2D analysis.