This book provides a comprehensive overview of laser sources and their
applications in various fields of science, industry, and technology.
After an introduction to the basics of laser physics, different laser
types and materials for lasers are summarized in the context of a
historical survey, outlining the evolution of the laser over the past
five decades. This includes, amongst other aspects, gas lasers, excimer
lasers, the wide range of solid-state and semiconductor lasers, and
femtosecond and other pulsed lasers where particular attention is paid
to high-power sources. Subsequent chapters address related topics such
as laser modulation and nonlinear frequency conversion. In closing, the
enormous importance of the laser is demonstrated by highlighting its
current applications in everyday life and its potential for future
developments. Typical applications in advanced material processing,
medicine and biophotonics as well as plasma and X-ray generation for
nanoscale lithography are discussed.
The book provides broad and topical coverage of laser photonics and
opto-electronics, focusing on significant findings and recent advances
rather than in-depth theoretical studies. Thus, it is intended not only
for university students and engineers, but also for scientists and
professionals applying lasers in biomedicine, material processing and
everyday consumer products. Further, it represents essential reading for
engineers using or developing high-power lasers for scientific or
industrial applications.
