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Femtosecond Laser - Coherent Astrella-1K-USP ULTRAFAST TI:SAPPHIRE AMPLIFIRE

A system for the production of photonic sensors, i.e. a complementary system for recording optical fiber periodic structures in special fibers, consisting of a femtosecond laser, systems for transferring the laser beam to the optical fiber using the phase mask method, point-by-point method, and air filtration.

The system also includes devices intended for the characterization of the produced structures in the form of a light source, an optical spectrum analyzer and a high-resolution reflectometer. Expansion of the research infrastructure with a specialized femtosecond laser system allows for the recording of Bragg structures, resistant to high temperatures and retaining their metrological properties.

The scope of research will include the development of a technology for producing Bragg structures on fluoride, non-oxide and photonic fibers using a femtosecond laser. The use of appropriate optical fibers from this type of glass will allow for the development of recording technology and the production of laser mirrors and sensors in the form of Bragg structures on them.

The construction of the entire system for the production of sensors using femtosecond lasers will allow for the construction of a whole range of sensors for measuring physical and chemical quantities. Thanks to this, the following will be possible:

• measurements and analysis of the degree of wear of pressure installations;
• measurements of the condition of mechanical structures (spans, bridges, buildings, etc.);
• detection of the concentration of chemical substances, e.g. gases;
• measurements of stresses insensitive to electromagnetic field and temperature changes;
• fiber refractometry;
• pH-metry;
• optical strain gauges;
• photonic thermometers for a wide range of temperatures.

The system was purchased as part of the project entitled “Research center for pro-environmental and energy-saving materials and technologies (CeBMaT)”. The purchased equipment is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.