1064 nm Laser Module

Where 1064 nm lasers are used

At 1064 nm you are past the point where most samples fluoresce, which is exactly why this line exists in analytical instruments. The trade is signal: Raman scattering scales with the fourth power of frequency, so moving from 532 nm to 1064 nm costs you a factor of sixteen. Acquisition takes longer and you need InGaAs detection rather than silicon.

• FT-Raman spectroscopy. The standard answer for dark, heavily pigmented and strongly fluorescent materials where visible excitation produces nothing usable.
• Interferometry and metrology. Long coherence length and a mature optics ecosystem at this wavelength.
• LIDAR and ranging. Atmospheric transmission is good and the component ecosystem is the most developed of any wavelength.
• Photoacoustic imaging. Deep tissue penetration with comparatively low absorption in water.
• Seed sources for amplification. A narrow, stable 1064 nm line is the input for many fiber amplifier chains.

One safety note. 1064 nm is invisible and sits inside the retinal hazard region, so there is no blink reflex to protect the eye. Treat it with at least the same care as a visible beam of the same power, not less.

1064 nm or a shorter wavelength?

Choose 1064 nm when fluorescence has already defeated the shorter options. If your sample works at 785 nm, stay there: you keep silicon detection and roughly three times the Raman signal. Move to 1064 nm when 785 nm still shows a rising background.

Compare with our 785 nm laser module for the common organic and pharmaceutical case, and with the 532 nm laser module when the sample is inorganic and fluorescence is not the limiting factor.