Supercontinuum Lasers: Ultra-Broadband Picosecond Lasers – White Light Sources

What is a Supercontinuum Laser?

Supercontinuum lasers, often referred to as “laser rainbows”, are a remarkable innovation in the field of photonics. They generate light with an extensive spectral bandwidth, resulting in a super-wide continuous optical spectrum. This process involves nonlinear effects such as self-phase modulation, stimulated Raman scattering, and four-wave mixing, which occur when high-intensity light interacts with a nonlinear medium. Supercontinuum lasers are a powerful tool in the field of photonics, offering a broad spectrum of light that can be utilized in various applications. Their ability to replace multiple single-line lasers and broadband sources makes them a cost-effective and efficient solution for industries ranging from bio-imaging to semiconductor inspection. With ongoing advancements in the field, the potential applications and capabilities of supercontinuum lasers continue to expand.

Supercontinuum Generation Process

Supercontinuum generation is a process in which laser light is converted to light with a very broad spectral bandwidth by using a strongly nonlinear component such as bulk glass or optical fiber containing a waveguide structure. The temporal coherence is very low, while spatial coherence typically remains high.

Key Features and Applications

Supercontinuum lasers are robust, reliable, and built for intensive use. They can replace multiple single-line lasers and broadband sources like amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) sources, superluminescent light-emitting diodes (SLEDs), and lamps. Innovative companies use these lasers in bio-imaging, semiconductor inspection, sorting, device characterization, and scientific instrumentation.

1. Wide Spectral Bandwidth: Supercontinuum generation involves converting laser light into a super-wide continuous optical spectrum with a very broad spectral bandwidth. This makes it useful for applications that require a wide range of wavelengths, such as spectroscopy, microscopy, and precision frequency metrology.
2. Single Light Source: Unlike several single-line sources, supercontinuum lasers provide a simpler and more robust system. They eliminate the need for multiple tunable lasers, resulting in cost savings and easier maintenance.
3. Spatial Coherence Preservation: Supercontinuum light is produced within the guided mode of an optical waveguide. As a result, it preserves the spatial coherence properties of the incident laser. Essentially, it combines the brightness and focusing properties of a laser with the broad bandwidth of a white-light incandescent bulb.
4. Maintenance-Free Operation: Supercontinuum lasers are known for their maintenance-free operation. Once set up, they require minimal adjustments or interventions, making them reliable for long-term use.
5. Short Measurement Times: Due to their broad spectral coverage, supercontinuum lasers enable efficient and rapid measurements. Researchers and engineers can obtain valuable data in shorter time frames.