3D photonic crystals could unlock wider potential of lasers
Crystals reduce energy leaks from unwanted optical transitions, say US Army researchers
A project funded by the US Army Research Office (ARO) has developed a method of fabricating 3D photonic crystals, which could eventually lead to lightweight, high-efficiency lasers with potential uses in directed-energy weapons (DEW) and a range of other military applications.
Lasers require some type of medium to support the optical transitions that create the laser effect, said Dr Evan Runnerstrom, a programme manager at ARO, part of the US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Army Research Laboratory (ARL).
He noted that most lasing materials have unwanted optical transitions, which essentially results in energy being leaked. However, 3D photonic crystals essentially
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
You may also like
More from US Land Procurement Special Report
-
![First ISVs set for imminent delivery]()
First ISVs set for imminent delivery
GM Defense is to hand over the first vehicles, four months after receiving a contract award
-
![Saab to deliver more Carl-Gustaf M3E1 to US from 2021]()
Saab to deliver more Carl-Gustaf M3E1 to US from 2021
The US Army is an existing user of the shoulder-fired weapon; deliveries under latest contract to begin in 2021
-
![FLIR moves towards next phase of NBC recce vehicle programme]()
FLIR moves towards next phase of NBC recce vehicle programme
Tests will include manned-unmanned teaming with ground robotic vehicle
-
![OMFV stands to benefit from meticulous approach]()
OMFV stands to benefit from meticulous approach
The latest RfP to replace the Bradley IFV reflects slower and more careful methods from the US Army
-
![US Army puts SMASH 2000 to the test]()
US Army puts SMASH 2000 to the test
US Army will collect the data from recent tests before determining its next steps
-
![Beretta supports GD-OTS on NGSW effort]()
Beretta supports GD-OTS on NGSW effort
Beretta USA makes Tennessee facility available for high-volume manufacturing
