New laser that generates more light than heat

London, Jan 12 (ANI): Scientists at the Northwestern University have broken new ground by creating compact, mid-infrared laser diodes which emit more light than heat.

The findings of the study, led by Manijeh Razeghi, the Walter P. Murphy Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, will help to use quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) in a number of applications, including remote sensing of hazardous chemicals.

The QCL is a diode laser that requires electrons to operate and is designed to produce light at the desired wavelength with high efficiency.

Razeghi said: "This breakthrough is significant because, for the very first time, we are able to create diodes that produce more light than heat.

"Passing the 50 percent mark in efficiency is a major milestone, and we continue to work to optimize the efficiency of these unique devices."

The study has appeared online in the journal Nature Photonics on January 10. (ANI)