Yb:YAG crystal is one of the most promising laser materials emitting light at the wavelength of 1030 nm. Because its peak absorption wavelength is around 0.94 mm, Yb:YAG crystals could be easily pumped by reliable InGaAs diode lasers at 940 nm. What’s very interesting is its frequency-doubled output at the wavelength of 515 nm which is very close to that of Ar-ion laser output (514 nm).  Lasers based on Yb:YAG crystals might be able to replace the large-size Ar-ion lasers in the future.

Yb:YAG crystal main advantages:
low fractional heating, less than < 11%
high slope efficiency
Broad absorption bandwidth, about 18 nm at 940 nm
No excited-state absorption or up-conversion
Conveniently pumped by reliable InGaAs diodes at 940 nm (or 970 nm)
High thermal conductivity and strength