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The CSIR provides a critical core of laser technology knowledge
and expertise through the research, development and implementation
of laser based technologies and applications in Africa.
This knowledge, housed at the CSIR National Laser Centre,
enables the South African industry to improve their global
competitiveness and expand their market share. The CSIR
National Laser Centre works closely with local higher education
institutions and supports laser related research at these
institutions.
The
basics of laser physics
The laser is a light source that exhibits unique
properties. Lasers dominate our modern world in a variety
of forms ranging from tiny diode lasers in all CD and DVD
players to large industrial lasers to cut and weld.
Current
laser research at the CSIR
Current CSIR laser research aims to improve laser technology
in manufacturing; to develop novel laser sources; to develop
light activated bio-nanodevices and to improve various therapeutic
and diagnostic medical applications of lasers.
Custodians
of the national laser infrastructure
With administrative and financial support from the National
Research Foundation (NRF), the CSIR runs an access grant
scheme that makes unique laser equipment and diagnostics
available to South African researchers in laser-related
fields. This initiative is called the Rental Pool Programme.
Facilities
Numerous highly equipped in-house laboratories are used
by CSIR researchers to conduct research in multi-disciplinary
fields such as nanotechnology, spectroscopy and laser beams.
The facility allows a broad spectrum of researchers access
to high quality laser research equipment, information and
technical support, throughout South Africa and to others
on the African continent.
The
African Laser Centre
The African Laser Centre was created to develop much-needed
laser research capacity, infrastructure, technology transfer
and applications, throughout Africa.
Public
understanding of laser science and engineering
The CSIR National Laser Centre runs a public awareness campaign,
aptly named Pulse – Public Understanding of Laser
Science and Engineering. Through the Pulse programme, the
CSIR communicates its laser activities to the general public
and also creates a broader community awareness of the economic
and social benefits of science, engineering and technology
(SET).
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