Researchers at
Princeton University have developed a novel method of lasing in air that could
be used for long range detection of molecular species, such as atmospheric
pollutants or chemicals. Princeton is currently seeking industrial
collaborators to commercialize this technology.
The technology employs the use of
a near infrared laser to dissociate oxygen or nitrogen molecules into atomic
oxygen or nitrogen and then causes the excitation of that atomic oxygen or
nitrogen by two photon absorption. This leads to laser beams propagating
in both the forward and reverse direction. The beam in the reverse
direction can be amplified by subsequent pumping of oxygen or nitrogen at
sequential locations, timed to coincide with the arrival of the backward
propagating laser pulse. The backward propagating laser pulse contains
information on molecular species in the air which can be detected using optical
methods such as simulating Raman scattering or backward propagating coherent
anti-Stokes Raman scattering.
It is anticipated that this new
method can be developed for both atmospheric (pollution) monitoring as well as
homeland security and military applications.
Patent protection is pending.
For more
information please contact:
William
H Gowen
Princeton University Office of Technology Licensing ¿ (609) 258-6762¿
wgowen@princeton.edu