Advances and Challenges in Pulsed Lasers Based on Low-Dimensional Material Saturable Absorbers

Low-dimensional materials (LDMs) are often favored by researchers in the ultrafast photonics field for their low optical loss, ultrafast carrier response, broadband nonlinear absorption, and easy integration with optoelectronic systems. High-performance broadband saturable absorbers (SAs) fabricated from LDMs have become core components for achieving compact and miniaturized ultrafast laser. This paper systematically reviews the laser applications of LDM SAs in the near/mid-infrared spectral region, focusing on the pulse modulation mechanisms, material systems, and device integration approaches. It analyzes current research progress and challenges while outlining future development trends for LDM SAs in ultrafast pulsed lasers and optoelectronic devices.