Integrated nonlinear optical system for sensing and imaging based on all-fiber, non-mode-locked ultrafast laser sources.

目的：本研究的目的是探索一种新的非线性显微系统的概念方法。该系统的设计方法旨在实现便携式和完全集成的仪器，该仪器依赖于可调谐、非锁模和高重复率（1GHz）激光源。该仪器利用相干振动光谱技术来检测复杂化学或生物介质中的特定分子组/亚组。该仪器的高检测灵敏度、紧凑性和坚固性保证了其更广泛的应用，从化学和生物研究到武器检测。拟议的研究将i）带来关于产生皮秒激光脉冲的各个方面的具体知识，皮秒激光脉冲是纵向模式自由的，并且以1GHz及更高的重复率产生，ii）探索不同的方法，以提高灵敏度，通过使用非线性振动光谱和显微镜技术的内在光谱标记检测重要的分子亚组。该计划是基于应用和基础研究的有效整合，为本科生和研究生提供教育和培训，并与不同的大学学院和部门进行广泛的合作。拟议的计划安排有兴趣参与跨学科研究的科学和工程专业的研究生和本科生参加。学生将有机会与学术界和工业界的专业人士互动。该项目的成功实施将吸引有兴趣进一步开发商业产品的商业光子学/生物光子学公司的兴趣。

Objective: The research objective of this proposal is to explore a new conceptual approach to a nonlinear microscopy system. The approach to the system's design is aimed towards portable and fully integrated instrument that relies on tunable, non-mode-locked, and high-repetition rate (1GHz) laser sources. The instrument utilizes a coherent vibrational spectroscopy technique to detect specific molecular groups/subgroups within a complex chemical or a biological media. The instrument's high detection sensitivity, compactness, and robustness promise wider applications that can range from chemical and biological research to weapons detection.Intellectual Merit: The proposed research will i) bring a specific knowledge on various aspects of generation of picosecond laser pulses that are longitudinal modes free and are generated at repetition rates of 1GHz and higher, ii) explore different ways of enhancing sensitivity in detecting important molecular sub-groups via their intrinsic spectroscopic markers using nonlinear vibrational spectroscopy and microscopy techniques.Broader Impacts: The proposed program is based on an efficient integration of the applied and fundamental research, education and training for undergraduate and graduate students and extensive collaboration with different University schools and Departments. The proposed plan arranges for participation of graduate and undergraduate students with majors in science and engineering fields who are interested to be involved in interdisciplinary research. The students will have an opportunity to interact with professionals within academia and industry. The successful implementation of the project will attract interest of commercial photonics/biophotonics companies interested in further development of the approach towards a commercial product.