Physicists Shatter Laser-Electron Interaction Record

In case you missed the news last week, researchers converted the energy of an electron beam into a pulse of coherent light with an efficiency of 30 percent. If you need perspective, this is much higher than the 10 percent efficiency of most free-electron lasers.


According to the breaking news story by PhysicsWorld.com, while the demonstration produces only infrared light, the method could lead to efficient, high-power lasers operating over a range of wavelengths, including X-ray.  X-ray sources like these could be used to etch circuits on semiconductor chips even faster.

At the Brookhaven National Laboratory, a research institute in Upton, New York,  the energy conversion was demonstrated by first accelerating a beam of electrons in a five-metre-long tunnel. They then directed those electrons for several more metres along a helical path using magnets, before illuminating those electrons with an infrared laser.

Physics-World
Courtesy: News Story, PhysicsWorld.com

The method could lead to efficient, high-power lasers operating over a range of wavelengths, including X-ray. Such X-ray sources could be used to etch circuits on semiconductor chips faster and more efficiently. -PhysicsWorld.com

Interested in learning more? Read the Full Article Here.


Tell LIA: What does this record-breaking update mean to you as a laser enthusiast or professional? Comment below or share with us on Twitter @LaserInstitute

The Laser Institute of America (LIA) is the international society for laser applications and safety. Our mission is to foster lasers, laser applications, and laser safety worldwide. Find us at www.lia.org.