Next Generation Sensors
Laser spectroscopy is widely viewed as one of the most promising approaches for developing the next generation of chemical and biological sensors. Unlike more commonly used analytical chemistry methods such as gas chromatography combined with mass spectroscopy (GC/MS), laser spectrometers are much easier to operate and do not require consumables such as high purity carrier gases. In addition, laser-based sensors typically have excellent analyte selectivity and provide results in real time. Overall, these features enable significant cost reductions in obtaining reliable chemical measurement results.

Medical Diagnostics
An ideal application that takes advantage of less costly molecular measurements is in biomedical research where many measurements can be rapidly performed on many different samples. Statistically significant scientific results can thus be obtained more quickly and at a lower cost than what is presently possible using existing analytical methods. These same cost advantages are also attractive for the ultimate clinical deployment of these laser-based sensors.