The Laser Optical Sensing group, located in Sandia’s Combustion Research Facility, develops laser diagnostics to detect chemicals in the field as well as in the laboratory. Many field applications require compact, tunable lasers, which in turn necessitate the development of small, robust laser sources that are broadly tunable in the infrared region. Currently, such sources exploit advances in optical technology — for example, rare-earth-doped optical fibers, quasi-phasematching, and crystal patterning.
Embedded-mirror side pumping.
Sandia researchers are exploring laser sources for sensors that will be used to identify infrared-light-absorbing chemical compounds. These lasers can then be used to detect leaks in the natural-gas, petroleum, and chemical industries; isotopes and chemical species in the atmosphere; and toxins and agents associated with chemical and bioterrorism. Work on laboratory lasers remains ongoing, with an emphasis on faster, tunable lasers like the second-generation picosecond dye laser. Industry and government sponsor this work, which includes important collaborations with the Naval Research Laboratory and Stanford University.
The Remote Sensing Group at Sandia National Laboratories researches and develops innovative optical and sensing technology platforms that offer substantial advantages over current methods. Laser optical sensing encompasses new remote and in situ chemical-composition optical-sensing technologies, laser materials, and systems; the development of photonic devices and systems; and innovative laser systems and optical diagnostics techniques. These optical imaging and sensing technologies can be turned into powerful, portable, field-deployable devices. Such devices can then be used in a variety of systems to monitor gases; particulates; and materials such as explosives, biological agents, or chemicals. The Remote Sensing Group actively seeks industry partnerships to develop radically new solutions to support national-security and industrial needs.
Contact Craig Smith at (925) 294-3358 for more information on partnering opportunities with Sandia’s Laser Optical Sensing group.