EPFL scientists have shown how to achieve a dramatic increase in the capacity of optical fibers. Instead trying to redesign the fiber itself, they decided to improve multiplexing – a method which allows sharing of a communications channel or medium by combining signals at a common point. The breakthrough could increase the throughput of data… »
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute have used a quantum cascade laser, a particular type of infrared laser, in analysis equipment that can automatically test samples of drinking water for contaminants. This technology analyzes water samples at the waterworks itself, and it needs only a couple of minutes to determine whether water contains any impurities and… »
Surveying the damage weather and land moving caused to asphalt and concrete on roads is tedious and expensive. When it comes to Germany, which has roads worth around 470 billion euros, it is not a small endeavor to perform such a task. Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute opted for a surveying system with a laser scanner… »
A group of researchers at the University of Michigan (U-M) have developed a laser-powered source and detector system which employs low-energy terahertz radiation with record high power and sensitivity. The breakthrough could enable doctors to see deep into tissues without the damaging effects of X-rays, or allow security guards to identify chemicals in a package… »
Previous attempts at making 3D photonic crystals have resulted in devices that are only optically active (they can’t turn electricity to light or vice versa). A group of researchers, led by researchers from the University of Illinois, have managed to develop the first optoelectronically active 3D photonic crystal. The development could enable new advancements for… »
Two researchers at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a living laser, in which a single cell genetically engineered to express green fluorescent protein (GFP). Before you start thinking about sharks with lasers or other science fiction creatures, this technology is used to amplify photons into nanosecond-long pulses of laser… »
