Homegrown laser crystals

Science
Homegrown laser crystals
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KDP_1.jpg
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My Dorkbot DC cohort Jon Singer sent me a link to a webpage of a buddy of his, a Croatian laser-hacker, who grew his own KDP (Monopotassium phosphate) crystals for use in a Nd:YAG laser. He had a time getting the crystals to grow, but was able to finally get some suitable growth and to find the right angle and alignment to get decent SHG and a pretty green beam. Apparently, this is not commonly and easily done with KDP, so it’s a bit of a triumph on this fellow’s part.

Homegrown KDP crystal and successful SHG attempt [Thanks, Jon!]

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Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. His free weekly-ish maker tips newsletter can be found at garstipsandtools.com.

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