Mid-infrared semiconductor laser for alcohol detection

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Each year, tens of thousands of deaths in Canada and the U.S. are caused by alcohol-impaired driving, spurring global efforts to develop in-vehicle technologies that will detect blood alcohol concentration and reduce the occurrence of these tragic (and completely preventable) accidents. The proposed project brings together researchers from the University of Waterloo and Alcohol Countermeasure Systems Corp. (ACS), a Toronto-based company, to develop a novel middle-infrared quantum cascade laser that can be used as a customized and efficient light source for ACS' infrared-spectroscopy based alcohol detection system, which have strong potential as non-contact alcohol interlocks in vehicles. The goal of this project will be to develop and test a working prototype laser device both theoretically and experimentally. Key objectives include: 1) development of a comprehensive knowledge base about the underlying physics of intersubband transition and electron-electron, electron-phonon interactions occurring in the quantum semiconductor heterostructures; 2) to explore and design new quantum structures that can be used for the desired middle infrared laser source; 3) to fabricate and characterize quantum cascade lasers that satisfy the needs from ACS and the industry. Development and implementation of these novel technologies will help establish a leadership position for ACS and Canada within this growing niche market and promote driver, passenger and pedestrian safety worldwide. This project will also provide an excellent opportunity for graduate students to gain hands-on experience with optical components, alcohol monitoring technologies and in-vehicle technologies - all important skills for careers in the strategically important sectors (electronics, automotive, manufacture, photonics) to the Canadian economy.