Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic MicrosystemsWe develop tunable quantum cascade lasers (QCL) in the mid-infrared range. These semiconductor lasers can be optimized for power or tunability at long wavelengths through suitable layer design. Our tunable quantum cascade lasers have a diffraction grating and can therefore scan a large wavelength range very quickly - perfect for spectroscopy. The advantages of our technology lie in the larger spectral range that can be covered, the fast tunability, the small module size and the flexible operating modes.
Quantum cascade lasers
Resonant 1D MEMS scanner
What we offer:
- MEMS mirror modules up to 25,000 units or as bare dye in larger quantities
- Scan engines (laser modules) with diffraction gratings in the mid-infrared up to 1000 units/year
- Customized MEMS module consisting of an arrangement of 1 MEMS grating incl. electrical front end and drive electronics
- QCL light sources
- QCL light source in package with software and electronics
- QCL demo system (customer evaluation kit)
- Customer/project-specific QCL demonstrator with individual wavelength range incl. electronics and software for operating the light source (without evaluation of spectra)
- Support with optics design, optomechanical design, process transfer through to complete development services (customizing)
Possible specifications
Our QCLs are developed jointly by Fraunhofer IAF and Fraunhofer IPMS and are customized according to the application. Possible specifications include:
- Tunable between 3-12µm
- Scan frequency: quasi-static to resonant: 150 Hz, 500 Hz, 1000 Hz
- Size (L × W × H) 60 mm × 45 mm × 20 mm
- Integrated position sensor for wavelength determination
- Programmable pulse source and laser current source
- Laser drive electronics included
You can finde more information in our datasheet.
Application examples
Our QCLs are particularly suitable for applications in the field of:
- Detection of hazardous substances
- Infrared spectroscopy of liquids
- Continuous measurements in in- and online process control
- Control of food safety
- Medical applications
- Environmental analysis
