Title: NIST Develops Mid-Infrared Frequency Comb Generation Method
NIST researchers have developed a new method for generating mid-infrared frequency combs using intra-pulse difference frequency generation (DFG). The process involves:
1. Generating near-infrared pulses from a mode-locked laser
2. Amplifying and spectrally broadening the pulses using a nonlinear element like a normal dispersion highly nonlinear fiber (ND-HNLF)
3. Temporally compressing the broadened pulses to create short, high-power few-cycle pulses
4. Using an orientation-patterned GaP (OP-GaP) or poled lithium niobate (PPLN) crystal to generate a mid-infrared comb through intra-pulse DFG
The invention provides a robust, coherent source of mid-infrared light, which is difficult to obtain using conventional methods. This wavelength range is crucial for various applications including spectroscopy, materials science, microscopy, chemistry, trace gas sensing, and health diagnostics. The new method offers a promising approach to generating mid-infrared frequency combs for these important applications.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/patents/methods-and-apparatus-generating-mid-infrared-frequency-combs
Keywords: frequency, infrared, pulse
