Investigation of mid-IR picosecond image upconversion

Imaging and spectroscopy in the mid-infrared (Mid-IR) wavelength region have received considerable attention in recent years. The reason is the high Mid-IR spectral specificity of many gases and complex molecules. In this pilot study we focus on picosecond upconversion imaging exploiting the χ(2) nonlinearity of a bulk lithium niobate crystal as a means to convert the optical Mid-IR signal into the visible wavelength region, thus allowing the use of fast and sensitive silicon based CCD cameras.

The picosecond upconversion system is synchronously pumped in order to increase the quantum efficiency, hence allowing for upconversion of faint pulsed Mid-IR light.