Sidearm stimulated scattering phase-conjugated laser resonator.

We have demonstrated a novel self-Q-switched phase-conjugated laser resonator in which a stimulated scattering (SS) phase-conjugate mirror is placed in a sidearm located outside the conventional (starter) cavity. A Q-switched energy output of 200 mJ was obtained using cyclohexane liquid as the SS medium. Energy output was 20-40% less when carbon disulfide was used as the SS medium. Periodic substructure superimposed upon the Q-switched pulse envelope suggests that a regenerative amplification or mode-beating mechanism can be used to explain the resonator operation.