Femtosecond Optics Lab Copy
The Challenge
Nepal currently lacks expertise and infrastructure in the advanced scientific field of femtosecond optics. This has limited opportunities for local researchers to engage in high-impact scientific studies and technology development relevant for solving their local needs, especially in areas requiring ultrafast laser technology.
Our Solution
The Diyalo Foundation, in partnership with the Phutung Research Institute (PRI), is establishing Nepal’s first Femtosecond Optics Lab. The lab will serve as a national research and development hub for exploring high-speed laser applications and training a new generation of scientists and engineers in this cutting-edge field.
Background
Many of nature’s most critical processes—from photosynthesis to vision—occur on the femtosecond timescale (one millionth of a billionth of a second). Studying such ultrafast events requires specialized lasers capable of emitting pulses of light that last only a few femtoseconds. These lasers also deliver high peak powers, enabling the manipulation of materials in ways that are not possible with conventional light sources.
The science of femtosecond optics allows researchers to observe, understand, and manipulate matter at the most fundamental level. Despite global advancements, Nepal has not yet had the infrastructure or training facilities to engage in this field. Recognizing its importance in improving the quality of research in Nepal, the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and UNESCO, has provided a grant to establish the femtosecond optics lab at Phutung Research Institute (PRI). Within the framework of this grant, we have recently procured a Clark-MXR’s Magellan-5 with 5 W (average power), 150 fs (pulse duration), 20 MHz (pulse repetition rate) (for detailed specification of the laser, please click the link). With this laser, we wish to explore a range of applications, one of which is discussed under “Projects at the Lab”.
Our Partners
➤ Phutung Research Institute (PRI) – http://phutung.org.np/
➤ The World Academy of Science (TWAS) – https://twas.org/
➤ UNESCO – https://www.unesco.org
Impact
The Femtosecond Optics Lab will:
➤ Enable fundamental and applied research in femtosecond optics.
➤ Improve the quality of scientific education and research in Nepal.
➤ Train a highly skilled local workforce.
➤ Contribute to technological innovations relevant to Nepal’s local needs.
➤ Lay the groundwork for new scientific collaborations and industries.
Projects at the Lab
We are investigating how femtosecond laser pulses can modify the surface of materials used in medical implants, such as stainless steel rods for bone repair. The goal is to improve biocompatibility and allow for better tissue integration.
Why this matters:
Medical implants in Nepal are often imported from Singapore, China, and India, leading to delays and supply issues. Import and shipping delays pose serious problems to the patients in need, particularly when the items are out-of-stock or when the implants need to be customized to the patient’s need. By developing local expertise in surface modification using femtosecond lasers, Nepal can begin producing customized implants domestically, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and improving patient outcomes.