CSIR
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa is one of the leading scientific and technology research, development and implementation organisations in Africa. It undertakes directed research and development for socio-economic growth.

 Home About us Research & development Technology transfer Join the CSIR Contact us

Laser sources group

The CSIR’s laser sources  group, led by Dr Daniel Esser , actively engages in current and cutting-edge research in the field of diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) laser sources. This group designs efficient and high power mid-infrared laser systems. The use of novel laser architectures and gain media is investigated in order to optimise the laser performance. Both experimental work and mathematical models are used to push these lasers well beyond the limits of currently available technology.
Research is focused on Mid-Infrared DPSS lasers. Mid-infrared (~ 1.5 - 8.0 µm) lasers are very popular because they are far less harmful to the eye than lasers operating in the visible or near-infrared spectral region. In addition, many characteristic molecular absorption lines are in this region, which make these lasers very useful for chemical spectroscopy and laser remote sensing of pollution. Due to the high absorption of this wavelength regime in water, mid-infrared lasers are also useful for medical applications.
The research conducted in novel DPSS lasers is mainly aimed at power and energy scaling of these lasers while maintaining good beam quality of the laser output. This includes the research into novel laser concepts and geometries, thermal handling, laser resonator design and numerical modelling of the laser. Other areas of interest are special operating regimes, for example high spectral purity, and active control of laser parameters. In all areas, the emphasis is also on simple, robust and compact architectures.
Applications of DPSS lasers are abundant in science, industry, the medical and military fields. Researchers work in close relation with customers in the various areas.
To inquire about opportunities for collaboration or vacancies please email Dr Daniel Esser

Meet our team
Opportunities for students

About this section
Overview: CSIR National laser centre
> Overview: Laser systems
> Publications
News
top Back to top