We investigate the performance of a Ba(NO3)(2) crystal based Raman laser as a compact and inexpensive alternative to dye lasers for certain applications in combustion diagnostics. Use of this Raman laser for double-pulse applications like particle image velocimetry (PIV) and for spectroscopic techniques such as laser induced fluorescence (LIF) is demonstrated. Very high conversion efficiencies can be achieved and the crystal shows no saturation effects when pumped in rapid succession, which is important for high repetition rate applications. (C) 2011 The Combustion Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.