Hamamatsu Photonics announces the world’s first Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) module

the first-of-its-kind module has a tunable frequency range from 0.42 to 2 THz

10 Mar 2022
Rory Shadbolt
Publishing / Media

Industry news

Hamamatsu’s breakthrough was achieved by analyzing the principle governing the generation of terahertz waves, which enhance the QCL’s output power and the configuration of the highly efficient external cavity while using our advanced optical design technology.

This research results in generating narrow-band terahertz waves all while switching the frequency of just one QCL module. This technology will help in polymer material identification as well as boost accuracy in quality evaluation for non-destructive inspection of drugs, foods, and semiconductors containing components that absorb terahertz waves. The QCL module using this technology will also prove to be a key innovative device for achieving future ultra-high-speed wireless communication.

The Optica Publishing Group in the electronic version of the scientific journal Photonics Research published these research results on February 22, 2022. Part of this research was commissioned by the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, as a “Strategic Information and Communications R&D Promotion Program (SCOPE)” (No. JP195006001).

Want the latest science news straight to your inbox? Become a SelectScience member for free today>>

Links

Tags

NanotechnologyNanotechnology, or nanotech, is an engineering technique using molecular scale functional systems. Applications of nanotechnology include medicine and medical devices, electronics, air and water purification, food science and energy production.Non-Destructive TechniquesNon-destructive techniques (NDT) describes a variety of analytical techniques used to evaluate the properties of a material. Common methods include ultrasonic, magnetic-particle, liquid penetrant, radiographic, remote visual inspection (RVI), and eddy-current testing. NDT is regularly used in forensic engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, aeronautical engineering, and medicine.Polymeric MaterialsPolymeric materials are widely used in industries ranging from biomedical devices to packaging and electronics. Research into these materials focuses on their properties, including strength, flexibility, and degradation. Advances in polymer science have enabled the development of more sustainable and high-performance materials. Explore the best polymeric material products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.PolymersPolymers are large molecules made up of many repeat units. Natural polymers such as DNA and proteins are essential to life, whereas synthetic polymers such as polystyrene and polyethylene are used widely due to their functionality. Typical techniques for analysis include GPC, SEC, DSC, FT-IR and NMR.Semiconductors