Research Projects

This project aims to develop low-noise, continuous-wave, supercontinuum sources that operate in the short-wave infrared band (SWIR). The study will compare the performance of three different low-noise fiber lasers: narrowband fiber Bragg grating (FBG) cavity laser, Amplified Spontaneous Emission (ASE) laser, and Linewidth broadened DBR laser. The RIN mechanisms in these lasers differ, so the study aims to identify the optimal source for low-noise, continuous-wave, supercontinuum generation. The study will also examine the supercontinuum generated from two distinct optical fibers (HNLF and SMF28e) to gain insight into the relationship between optical nonlinearity and RIN. Simulations will validate this, and the generalized nonlinear Schrodinger equation (NLSE) will be solved for supercontinuum generation with different models of intensity noise representing these lasers. A wavelength-resolved noise characterization (RIN vs. Wavelength) in both time and frequency domains will be conducted. The project will result in the development of a low-noise, continuous wave, supercontinuum laser, suitable for various applications such as gas sensing, hyperspectral imaging, and food safety analysis. The laser source will be tested for long-term operation and packaged to achieve technology readiness level 7 (TRL-7). The all-fiber architecture and use of off-the-shelf components will make the system compact and cost-efficient.