Datasheet

Chapter 1: Overview
1.5. Fields of applications
1.5.1. IR
The ALPES LASERS QCLs address the need for gas sensing and spectroscopy appli-
cations in the wavelength region from 3 to 15µm as most chemical compounds have
their fundamental vibrational modes in the mid-infrared. More specifically, the high
transparency of the atmosphere in two so-called atmospheric windows at approxi-
mately 3-5µm and 8-12µm allows remote sensing and detection. The long wavelength
reduces Rayleigh scattering from dust and rain drops dramatically, allowing applica-
tions such as radars, ranging, anti-collision systems, covert telecommunications, etc.
As an example, Rayleigh scattering decreases by a factor 10
4
for wavelengths ranging
from 1µm to 10µm. Examples of applications are:
• Industrial process monitoring: contamination in semiconductor fabrication lines,
food processing, brewering, combustion diagnostics. Life sciences and medical
applications
• Medical diagnostics, biological contaminants.
• Law enforcement
Drug or explosive detection.
• Military: chemical/biological agents detection, counter measures, covert telecom-
munications.
14 QCL user’s manual v3.0