The Department of Photonics Engineering works mainly in all the ways light can be used. Technologies based on optics (light) can replace many of the more resource demanding technologies.
Light can measure, sense, and identify materials without touching them
The Terahertz Camera can be used to detect faults in the insulation of rocket ships before it is too late, and to detect and identify potentially explosive liquids in the baggage of terrorists. In the health sector, light is also replacing and improving current treatment and diagnostic methods. Using light for these processes, is less invasive and more energy efficient.
Light can measure the environment
The LIDAR project involves a sensing component, which measures wind speed, for the purpose of setting the wings of wind mills for maximum exploitation of the wind’s energy.
Light can encourage growth very specifically. Diode lamps in certain colours can be used to control the growth of plants according to specific needs. Such targeted control saves energy.
Light can transport data
The primary transmission technology for communication networks, such as the internet, is based on optical fibers which can transmit unknown masses of data compared to other medias. When routers and switches all become optically based, energy usage and capacity needs will be significantly reduced.
And then there is lighting
At DTU Fotonik, the researchers are working on developing better, cheaper, and more energy efficient lighting. The technology is called LED. It is based on diodes and lasers.
More information www.fotonik.dtu.dk
