STTR Phase I: High Power Optic Source Enabling Sensor

This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project investigates efficient stimulated Raman amplification in the 1620-1750 nm near infrared spectral region. This spectral range overlaps with the first overtone of the strongest vibration resonances. In addition, no efficient high brightness directs emission sources exist in this spectral region resulting in either low power or complex laser systems covering this important spectroscopic region. In this project, high power tunable laser sources will be developed for the remote detection and spectroscopic characterization of organic compounds. The direct outgrowth of this program should enhance the ability to offer to commercial and government customers a qualified optical sensor array detecting the presence of hydrocarbons. This sensor array could be useful in particular to the Petroleum and Gas industry in their refineries and distribution networks. Oil Companies spend over $100M a year in detecting and preventing gas leaks in their facilities.