Single-shot, ultrashort laser pulse characterization based on the dispersion scan technique

Introduction

Ultrashort laser pulses are prominent enabling tools in countless advanced applications, ranging from fundamental research to medical and industrial use. However, straightforward characterization of ultrashort laser pulses remains a nontrivial task.

Project Overview

The proposed project (acronym: SISHOT) focuses on the development of advanced ultrashort laser pulse characterization based on the dispersion scan (d-scan) technique. We propose two d-scan implementations, named s-shot and d-shot, capable of characterizing ultrashort laser pulses in single-shot operation.

Advantages of Single-Shot Characterization

Single-shot characterization techniques are particularly appealing because they can measure the temporal profile of individual laser pulses without artefacts, often originating from averaging. The proposed techniques can:

• Directly link the measured pulse parameters to the outcome of experiments for every laser shot.
• Provide immediate, real-time feedback to the adjustment and optimization of any ultrashort pulse laser.

In comparison to the competitors, our instruments are easier to use and the measurements are more intuitive to interpret.

Technology Readiness Levels

Within the project, the s-shot will be lifted from TRL4 to TRL7 and the d-shot from TRL7 to TRL9. We have identified the most important markets for ultrashort pulse characterization:

1. The s-shot will address the important scientific market at the laser wavelength of 800 nm.
2. The d-shot will focus on the wavelength of 1030 nm, which is more relevant to medical and industrial applications.

Project Background

The project builds on the outcome of the previously funded ERC POC project, SISCAN. It is headed by Cord L. Arnold, assoc. prof. at Lund University in Sweden, and Rosa Romero, CEO of the deep-tech company, Sphere Ultrafast Photonics, located in Porto, Portugal.

Team Expertise

All team members have been working with the d-scan technology for many years in different collaborations, including two common ERC POC projects. Many of them are co-founders of Sphere and co-inventors of the patents the project builds on.