The Rise of Laser Technology

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June 21, 2021

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Laser technology is becoming more and more prevalent across the world. The reasoning stems from its integration into a wider variety of industries. Did you know that indium phosphide is key to laser functionality? Wafer World is the largest global wafer manufacturer and produces InP reclaim wafers that work well for all forms of laser technology!  Lasers are fun toys, but they are so much more. Did do know that dentists and doctors use lasers? This incredible invention helps so many people perform their jobs as a result of wafers.  

What Are InP Reclaim Wafers?  

InP (Indium Phosphide) is the primary crafting material to make these. This material is excellent for powerful devices because it has the fastest electron velocity of all the semiconductors. This is the same material used for fiber optics. These wafers are on their second (or more) life, as they have done time as semiconductors before. InP wafers are thinner and smaller as a result, which lets them conduct electrons more efficiently. Therefore, they're especially suited to work in devices that function under high frequencies.  

Why Use Reclaim Wafers?  

These are a great way to save money during the experimenting and trial phases. During product testing, these wafers perform similarly to the wafers you'd typically use. They provide you with the data you need as well as being easier on your wallet.  

The Exciting World of Lasers

Lasers are nothing more than controlled, light-producing wavelengths. To achieve this, electrons must fire correctly, which renders the wavelengths viewable. However, the range of light produced is extremely limited to either infrared or ultraviolet.  The first of these wavelengths occurred in the final days of 1958. Charles Townes and Arthur Schawlow were the brains behind it all and realized that shorter wavelengths would be more robust, which is why lasers today are either infrared or ultraviolet.   There are many applications for lasers. Once you try reclaim wafers during testing, you’ll be impressed by what they can do at a fraction of the cost. You may find the performance of the devices to improve when harnessing the power of indium phosphide.   Lasers are used in everyday life - so much so that even the most superficial parts of our day rely heavily on them. For example, the last time you shopped at your local grocery store, lasers were a significant part of your experience since there are lasers in barcode readers. That allows the companies to scan the product into their inventory and then sell it to consumers.  However, barcodes are far from the only use; here is a list of many more laser uses:  

  • LiDAR
  • Optical tweezers
  • Scalpels
  • Cutting
  • Welding
  • Storage
  • 3D
  • Photography

While far from being inclusive, this list shows a diverse assortment of uses. It's incredible how laser use can range from physical to digital application all because of wafers.  

Medical Lasers  

The medical industry uses lasers for a few things that you may not be aware of, while on the other hand, you've probably had a CT scan done in the past. The point being, modern medicine would not look the same today if it didn't utilize lasers.  

inp reclaim wafers dental laser

Laser Modes for Medical Application

Not only do InP wafers give lasers their functionality, but they are also robust enough to supply differing modes to diversify lasers further. The following are laser modes found in medical institutions:  

  • Continuous
  • Chopped
  • Pulsed

Continuous

Also referred to as CW mode, meaning continuous wave, it's very straightforward. This requires a constant flow of energy to function correctly. The first continuous laser emitted a red light due to its synthetic ruby as the laser medium.  

Chopped  

Chopped lasers emit wavelengths that are just as strong as CW waves but are shorter. These run through a "duty cycle" rather than being turned on to run continuously. These cycles are essentially programmed times for the device to operate.  

Pulsed  

These are focused blasts of light as opposed to the other two forms. In addition, due to pumping in a gas medium, these lasers can be much more potent than CW. The medical field has a great need for these three laser styles. There are a lot of laser applications that have made doctor's jobs much more manageable. Some procedures that utilize lasers are:  

  • Tattoo removal
  • Eye surgery
  • Hygiene/cleaning
  • Gum disease
  • Surgery assistance

Tattoo removal is an exciting concept as most people associate permanent decision-making with tattooing. The process revolves around the colors being broken up, which causes the tattoo to fade away. Due to black absorbing light, black pigments are the easiest to treat.  A popular misconception states that tattoo removal is excruciatingly painful. While it's impossible to know each individual's pain tolerance, in general, more people compare it to receiving a tattoo than saying it's more painful.  

Manufacturing with Lasers

Manufacturers have realized over the years that lasers can make their lives much easier. As a result, manufacturers of every kind are investing more resources into laser technology to streamline processes from automobiles to clothing.  

Cutting

Think of laser cutting as localized melting. That's because the process relies on thermal reactions to pierce through objects. However, not all cases call for the same cutting process, resulting in three techniques: fusion, flame, and remote.  Fusion cutting utilizes two gases: nitrogen and argon. This combination of gases can cut through fusible metals and materials such as ceramics and certain metals. In addition, the gases protect the edges, leaving them crisp and oxide-free.  

Welding

The use of lasers can weld both metals and thermoplastics. How? Lasers provide a highly concentrated heat source that binds two different materials into one. Depending on the job, sometimes the beam doesn't penetrate further than the surface while providing a strong bond.

inp reclaim wafers engraving

Do You Need InP Reclaim Wafers?

If you're a laser device manufacturer and aren't using indium phosphide wafers for testing, you're missing out. These quality wafers can save you lots of money during product testing, and the regular use of InP wafers can lead to a higher quality product. Chat with us today for a better build tomorrow!

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