PhAST Market Focus

June 2-4, 2009
Baltimore Convention Center
Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Free Business Programming at PhotonXpo

• Included with your exhibit pass
• On exhibit floor
• 25 presentations featuring industry experts
• Focus on business development and commercial applications

PhAST Market Focus Co-Chairs
Gail Overton, Optoelectronics Report eNewsletter, Co-chair
Juergen Popp, IPHT-Jena, Germany, Co-chair

PhAST Market Focus Sessions

Photonics for Energy - Tuesday, June 2
Biophotonics - Wednesday, June 3
Photonics for Security and the Environment - Thursday, June 4

1. Photonics for Energy – Tuesday, June 2

New Laser Sources and Processes in Photovoltaic Manufacturing

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Finlay Colville, Coherent Inc., USA, Moderator

Lasers and laser-based tools are making considerable inroads into solar cell and panel production lines worldwide, substantiating the somewhat diminished effect of macroeconomic events on the solar industry’s continued rise to fame.  From a technology standpoint - as the solar industry diversifies with increased Thin-Film variants and 3rd Generation cell technologies - the range of laser applications appears to grow year-on-year.  This session features contributions from all of the leading laser manufacturers currently active within the solar industry.  What new laser sources have been developed for solar manufacturing?  Why are these of use to cell producers?  How does the laser industry collectively accelerate the adoption rate of lasers within the solar industry?  The first event of its type, these questions will be addressed during a series of presentations and discussed within an informal question-and-answer panel session.

Invited Speakers:  

10:30-10:35
Introduction, Finlay Colville, Coherent, Inc, USA

10:35 a.m.–10:50 a.m.
New Short Pulse IR and Green Fiber Lasers for PV Applications, Tony Hoult, IPG Photonics

10:50 a.m.–11:05 a.m.
Laser Applications in Solar Cell Manufacturing, Richard Hendel, Rofin/Baasel Lasertech, Germany
 
11:05 a.m.–11:20 a.m.
Investigation of Laser Scribing Techniques to Improve Manufacturing of Thin-Film Photovoltaics, Andy Webb and Mike Osborne, Optek Systems Inc., USA
 
11:20 a.m.–11:35 a.m.
Lasers for Thin Film Solar Repair, Jasmine Shih, New Wave Research, USA

11:35 a.m.–11:50 a.m.
High-Energy DPSS Lasers for Border Deletion of Thin-Film Panels, Allan Ashmead, Larry Shi, Stephen Lee, Finlay Colville, Coherent, Inc., USA

11:50 a.m.–12:05 p.m.
Using Advanced Laser Techniques from Semiconductor Manufacturing in Solar PV Manufacturing, Cristian Porneala, Rick Slagle and Doug Pulfer, J. P. Sercel Associates, Inc, USA

12:05 p.m.–12:30 p.m.
Roundtable Q&A

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Steve Eglash, Entrepreneur, USA, Moderator
 
We all know that renewable energy and energy efficiency are rapidly growing and increasingly important economically and for the environment.  Electro-optics technologies are playing a major role in energy.  Technologists and entrepreneurs are developing new technologies and applying existing technologies in optics and photonics to solve problems in photovoltaics, solid-state lighting, and windows for energy efficient buildings.  This session will explore the challenges and opportunities in energy and will showcase leaders who are applying lasers and electro-optics to find solutions and create value for their customers.

Invited Speakers:

2:30 p.m.–2:40 p.m.
Introduction, Steve Eglash, Entrepeneur, USA

2:40 p.m.–3:20 p.m.
The Rise of Green Photonics Technology, Michael Lebby, President, Optoelectronics Industry Development Association (OIDA), USA

Abstract: Green photonics technology has been around for many years as a large portfolio of engineers and scientists strive for energy efficiency, cleaner solutions, and improved health in their designs.  The contribution of photonics is considered green if it generates or conserves energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, reduces pollution, yields an environmentally sustainable outcome, or improves public health.   Over the next decade, many innovative new products will emerge in many industries that will better define and demonstrate green photonics technology.

3:20 p.m.–3:50 p.m.
Status and Prognosis for Solid-State Lighting Technology, Mike Krames, VP, Advanced Laboratories, Philips Lumileds Lighting Co., USA

Abstract: Sustained improvements in epitaxial materials, device design, and packaging have positioned light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as the solution for future lighting needs worldwide. State-of-the-art LED performance is reviewed along with discussion of challenges and future outlook.

3:50 p.m.–4:15 p.m.
Relevance of Optoelectronic Materials to High-Efficiency Solar Cells, Jan-Gustav Werthen, Senior Director, Photonic Power Business Unit, JDSU, USA

 

2. Biophotonics – Wednesday, June 3

Biophotonics: Diagnostics

1:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m.
Marco Arrigoni, Coherent Inc., USA, Moderator

Visible and IR laser light is a versatile tool that allows to excite a variety of processes when interacting with molecules, cells and tissues for diagnostic purposes. Specific properties of laser beams enable desirable benefits: tight focusing allows high-resolution imaging, wavelength agility permits to choose the ideal “color” to penetrate tissues deeper and to minimize photodamage, short pulse duration enables high temporal resolution and generation of non-linear effects. No other light sources bring together such an array of advantages. The perceived barrier to expanding the use of laser sources for life-science diagnostics applications has been cost and reliability. This session will focus on technology advances that bridge the gap between high performance and the drawbacks historically associated with laser sources, especially when used by non-laser experts.

Invited Speakers:

1:15 p.m.–1:35 p.m.          
Applications of Ultrafast Fiber Lasers and Supercontinuum sources in BioPhotonics, Anatoly Grudinin, John Clowes and Colin Seaton, Fianium, UK

Abstract: Ultrafast fiber lasers both directly and as the engine for SuperContinuum generation have been shown to have great utility as reliable, low cost sources for multiple applications in Bio-Instrumentation and Medical applications.

1:35 p.m.–1:55 p.m.
From the Telecom Boom and Bust Towards Pervasive Spectroscopy, William Yang, BaySpec, Inc., USA

Abstract: Instrumentation professionals have long recognized great potential for NIR, Raman spectroscopic analyzers in many application areas from lab analysis to portable field monitors. Recent advances in high volume telecom manufacturing presents a new picture today.

1:55 p.m.–2:15 p.m.          
Ultrachrome Lasers for Biophotonical Applications, Thomas Hellerer, TOPTICA Photonics AG, Germany

Abstract: Until recently, tunable light sources covering the entire visible spectrum were not available for life sciences. We review different types of the new ultrachrome sources and their benefits for biophotonical applications like fluorescent lifetime imaging.

2:15 p.m.–2:35 p.m.
Ultrafast Lasers for Multiphoton and Other Non-linear Microscopy, David Armstrong and Chris Dorman, Coherent, Inc., USA

Abstract: Easy-to-use, broadly tunable and flexible ultrafast lasers bring to fruition the promise for least-damaging, deep in-vivo imaging made by multiphoton and other non-linear microscopy techniques

2:35 p.m.–2:55 p.m.  
Ultrafast biophotonic applications for in-situ diagnosis and proteomics, Marcos Dantus, BioPhotonic Solutions Inc., USA

Abstract: Ultrafast shaped pulses are enabling a number of biophotonic applications. This presentation will briefly discuss reliable delivery of these pulses using MIIPS® and then illustrate applications in nonlinear optical imaging and proteomics.

2:55 p.m.–3:15 p.m.  
Detectors for cell imaging, Ken Kaufmann, Hamamatsu Photonics, USA

Abstract: State-of-the-art detectors for two photon imaging, parallel imaging, and lifetime imaging will be discussed. Both detectors and their applications will be covered.

Biophotonics: Therapy

3:45 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Wolfgang Petrich, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Germany

Photonic technologies have tremendously progressed over the last years and this development sheds its light also onto the therapeutic applications. Intense laser light enables accurate and efficient surgical interventions, for instance in the fields of dermatology, ophthalmology and dentistry. The selective enrichment of chromophores within tumors and the (minimally invasive or external) illumination of such sensitized malign tissue forms the basis of the photodynamic therapy, which allows for an efficient fight against cancer. Further therapeutic applications of photonic technologies include the safeguarding of therapeutic procedures for example in the field such as regenerative medicine. Furthermore, the stimulation of nerves with infrared light could help surgeons to precisely locate critical nerves during a surgical procedure and thus may avoid inadvertent damage and subsequent functional loss.

Invited Speakers:

3:45 p.m.–4:15 p.m.
Photodynamic Therapy: A Pivotal Challenge in Translating Biophotonics Concepts into Practice, Brian C. Wilson, Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto and Ontario Cancer Institute, Canada

Abstract: Photodynamic therapy -the use of light activated drugs- has many and diverse potential applications in medicine. While these share common principles, the different applications pose distinct scientific, technological, clinical and commercialization challenges. 

4:15 p.m.–4:45 p.m.
Raman Spectroscopy in Tissue Engineering of Cartilage, Carsten Bolwien, Fraunhofer IPM, Freiburg, Germany

Abstract: Bacterial contamination is a critical issue in transplant medicine. Here we show how laser-based Raman spectroscopy together with microtechnology can help to rapidly detect and identify conceivable contaminants in autologous cartilage transplants.”

 

3. Photonics for Security and the Environment – Thursday, June 4

Terahertz: Imaging and Surveillance

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Mark Tolbert, TOPTICA Photonics Inc., USA, Moderator

The Terahertz (THz) portion of the frequency spectrum (0.3-10 THz) has attracted interest for various potential applications such as homeland security and threat detection, process and quality improvement in manufacturing processes as well as imaging for applications such as cancer detection. However, the spectral region has been underutilized due the lack of quality equipment and the inadequacy of THz sources, detectors, lasers and components  that are not yet industrially integrated. This session intends to focus on the latest advances in techniques and the equipment for using THz in imaging and security applications that will further enable the development of the terahertz region of the spectrum.

Invited Speakers:

10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Real-Time Standoff THz Interrogation for Security and Industry, Thomas Tongue, CEO, Zomega Terahertz Corporation, USA

Abstract: As THz is investigated for applications in security and industry, quantifying the performance of proposed devices in terms of Gauge Repeatability and Reproducibility, False Positive and Negative rates and other metrics becomes essential. An overview of real-time approaches to THz spectroscopic interrogation for security and industry is covered, and implications for technology development to improve key performance metrics is discussed. A live demo of real-time, non-contact chemical identification will be provided using the mini-Z THz Time Domain Spectrometer to highlight the capabilities and challenges of THz applications.

11:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Terahertz Photoconductive Antenna Technologies and Their Applications in Imaging, Spectroscopy, and Surveillance,
Daryoosh Saeedkia, CTO, T-Ray Science Inc., Canada

Abstract: Real world applications for the terahertz (THz) photoconductive antenna technology requires high power THz sources and wide band terahertz detectors, which are easy to use and reliable in the long-run, and are less sensitive to the environmental changes and to the transportation and vibration in work places. Fiber-coupled high-power THz sources and detectors are the key elements to harness the unique properties of terahertz waves for variety of applications, such as security, biology and medicine, medical imaging, material spectroscopy and sensing, and monitoring and spectroscopy in pharmaceutical industry. Fiber-coupled THz transmitter/receiver modules can take the terahertz systems from the laboratory into the industrial sectors that are looking to utilize terahertz waveforms to perform spectroscopic and imaging functions with low-cost, portable, reliable and ruggedized systems.

In this talk, the application of THz photoconductive antenna arrays as transmitter and receiver elements in THz spectroscopy and imaging systems will be presented. The maximum available THz power from single element photoconductive antennas is limited by the saturation due to the field screening effect and by the thermal failure and device breakdown at high optical excitation powers and high dc bias voltages. Single element THz photoconductive antennas with small photo-absorbing areas, such as dipoles, spirals, log-periodic, etc. are also sensitive to the optical beam alignment. Terahertz photoconductive antenna arrays on transparent substrates with large active areas are easy to use and are less sensitive to the beam alignment and to the environmental changes. They can sustain more optical excitation power and dc bias voltages compared to the conventional single element photoconductive antennas. They can be easily incorporated into compact and portable fiber-coupled THz spectrometer/imager systems. 

11:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Video-Rate Synthetic Aperture/ Interferometric THz Imaging,  John Federici, Department of Physics, New Jersey Institute of Technology, USA

Abstract: Experimental results from a video-rate terahertz interferometric imaging system are presented. Two hardware configurations will be discussed. In the first configuration, a photoconductive antenna serves as the THz source. In the second configuration, an independent frequency multiplied microwave source serves as the THz source for active illumination of a target. The detector array for both hardware configurations consists of four photoconductive detectors that are driven by two infrared lasers whose difference frequency is tuned to the THz frequency of the source. Video-rate images are acquired at a rate of 16 ms per frame with a four element detector array. The image resolution and quality are affected by the number of detectors, the configuration of detection array, and how well the baselines are calibrated. Details of the hardware system and video rate terahertz image are presented with emphasis on stand-off security screening.

12:00 p.m.–12:30 p.m.
A High Resolution Terahertz Spectrometer for Chemical Detection, Alexander Majewski, Sr. Principal Physicist, Goodrich ISR Systems, USA

Abstract: Goodrich has developed a high resolution, broad band spectrometer that operates in the Terahertz (THz) region of the spectrum with the intent of performing chemical detection. THz spectroscopy exploits rotational resonances for gas phase detection. The Goodrich THz spectrometer is based upon CW photomixer technology in a heterodyne configuration. The current Goodrich design offers continuous tunability across a 0.1 to 1.2 THz frequency range. One of the unique aspects of the Goodrich spectrometer is laser system control that has demonstrated difference frequency line widths and repeatability at the MHz level.  The spectrometer design enables high THz energy densities with narrow line widths tunable over a broad spectrum. This capability allows the Goodrich system to accurately determine absorption signatures of multiple chemicals.  Goodrich has completed various phases of system testing and performance verification. Data will be presented for various toxic industrial chemicals.

Environmental Monitoring Solutions in the Mid-Infrared

2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Tim Day, Daylight Solutions, USA, Moderator

Investing in Green Technologies has been proposed on Capitol Hill and in board rooms as a necessary component of a comprehensive strategy to address the country’s challenges in economic recovery, climate crisis and energy security.   Innovative solutions are evolving based on the premise that accurate environmental monitoring builds a knowledge base that enables conservation and improves quality of life.   Molecules present in GHGs like CO2, CO, ozone, methane, sulfur hexafluoride, CFCs and HFCs all have strong signatures in the Mid-IR.   Our speakers will describe programs that address applications of the quickly evolving domain of Environmental Monitoring in the Mid-IR.

Invited Speakers:

2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.
Mid-InfraRed Technologies for Health and the Environment, Claire Gmachl, Professor of Electrical Engineering, Princeton University, Director of MIRTHE (NSF-ERC), USA

Abstract: The prospects of environmental sensing based on mid-infrared absorption spectroscopy are discussed, especially recent and rapid technology advancements based on Quantum Cascade lasers. This new approach enables compact yet powerful sensors and sensor networks.

2:20 p.m.–2:40 p.m.
Our Breathing World: Measuring the Flow of Carbon from the Plant Cell to the Planet, Dayle K. McDermitt, Science & Technology – Environmental Products, LI-COR, USA

Abstract: Photosynthesis is the most important transducer of solar energy into chemical energy on earth and is the basis of the global carbon cycle. I discuss how photosynthesis and important elements of the carbon cycle are measured.

2:40 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Opportunities and Challenges for Gas Analyzer Manufacturers in the MIR, David Neuschuler, Director Business Development, Teledyne Advanced Pollution Instrumentation, USA

Abstract: At a time when MIR lasers are emerging as viable optical sources for the measurement of gases, what role will these devices play and what obstacles will they encounter in existing and newly forming applications and markets? 

3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.
Mid-IR Laser Based Sensors in Environmental Monitoring, Eric Takeuchi, Director Business Development, Daylight Solutions

Abstract: Commercialization of miniaturized laser-based sensors for environmental monitoring is rapidly advancing. Perspectives on future directions in ubiquitous sensor networks will be discussed.

3:20 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Panel Discussion
Moderator, Tim Day, CEO/CTO, Daylight Solutions

 

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