Type II quantum cascade laser developed

Scientists claim to have developed the world`s first type-II quantum cascade laser able to operate at a higher temperature and deliver more power in the 3-to-12-micron wavelength than previous laser diode technology. This mid-infrared system has potential for military, space, and commercial applications such as infrared countermeasures, covert illumination for night vision, free-space communications, collision avoidance, several medical procedures, and monitoring industrial, pollution, greenhouse, hazardous, and toxic gases, say officials at the University of Houston Space Epitaxy Center in Houston. University of Houston scientists developed the laser together with experts at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, N.M. - J.K.