Femtosecond pulses create broadband light in diamond

Oct. 1, 2008
Although broadband sideband generation has been observed in certain crystals and in chemical-vapor-deposition (CVD) diamond using stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) with nanosecond and picosecond lasers, researchers at Texas A&M University (College Station, TX) have now observed broadband generation in diamond using femtosecond laser pulses.

Although broadband sideband generation has been observed in certain crystals and in chemical-vapor-deposition (CVD) diamond using stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) with nanosecond and picosecond lasers, researchers at Texas A&M University (College Station, TX) have now observed broadband generation in diamond using femtosecond laser pulsesan important move toward generating broad-spectrum, subfemtosecond light waveforms in solids. These subfemtosecond light waves have applications in ultrafast science and technology.

When the researchers apply a Stokes pulse (630 nm) and a pump pulse (584 nm) to a 500-µm-thick diamond, up to 18 multicolored beams are generated. Interference measurements confirm that the process creates mutually coherent sidebands; the researchers postulate that a single-cycle, 0.5-fs-wide pulse could be obtained with proper phase matching of the generated beams. When three beams are used with the sample in a boxed coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering configuration, a two-dimensional array of multicolored beams is produced through SRS, four-wave mixing, and six-wave mixing. The researchers are working to optimize the broadband generation process by optimizing the input wavelengths and the optics that couple the signals into the diamond, and by using a thicker diamond sample for increased Raman gain. Contact Miaochan Zhi at [email protected].

Sponsored Recommendations

What are Notch Filters?

Feb. 27, 2025
Notch filters are ideal for applications that require nearly complete rejection of a laser line while passing as much non-laser light as possible.

Using Optical Filters to Optimize Illumination in Fluorescence and Raman Systems

Feb. 27, 2025
Discover how Semrock products can help you get the most out of your fluorescence and Raman excitation designs, regardless of light source.

Melles Griot Optical Systems and Semrock Optical Filters for Spatial Biology

Feb. 26, 2025
Discover why a robust, high-throughput fluorescence imaging system with Semrock optical filters is key for Spatial Biology.

Understanding Practical Uses and Optimization Techniques for Fluorescence Optical Filters

Feb. 26, 2025
Learn about optical fluorescence and which optical filters to include in your instrument set up. See more with Semrock filter sets.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!