Laser technologies

What we do

Laser technologies

The CSIR houses a critical core of laser expertise and scientific infrastructure for laser-related research and development, product development and industrial services across a wide range of sectors, including mining, health, defence, manufacturing, communication and power generation.

Laser technologies

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Highlights

Production of further diamond sorting lasers for De Beers Ignite 

Five bespoke laser systems have been integrated into diamond sorting systems at De Beers Ignite mines in Botswana. To the naked eye, diamonds and quartz appear similar. However, Raman spectroscopy can detect molecular structures, making it possible to distinguish between the two despite their similar molecular signatures. The CSIR system utilises Raman spectroscopy to accurately differentiate diamonds from quartz.

Laser-beam welding technology for repairs to Eskom power generation equipment

The CSIR leveraged its laser beam welding capabilities to perform repairs at several Eskom power stations. The technology was developed in collaboration with Eskom’s Research, Testing and Development department. The refurbishment process used laser cladding, a technique in which metal is deposited and welded precisely onto worn components. Lasers are particularly well suited to this method due to their low heat input, high speed and the precision enabled by a robotically controlled arm.

Our research

Photonic sensor systems

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We use optical or photonics-based techniques to conduct single-molecule and/or single-cell studies. This field covers medical and biological disciplines, as well as chemical and physical sciences. The use of light and optics offers significant advantages by enabling the collection and analysis of multi-dimensional data.

Solid-state lasers

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We have a proven track record in developing and positioning multi-kilowatt laser beams, shaping high-power laser beams, compensating for thermo-optical distortions and producing high-power bulk mid-IR laser sources at wavelengths of 1 µm, 1.3 µm, 1.9 µm and 2 µm.

Metal additive manufacturing

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Our work supports competitive production approaches – from identifying the best materials for three-dimensional-printing and optimising production through fusion or energy deposition, to defining optimal post-processing strategies and conducting testing and evaluation of final parts.

Laser surface modification

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We support clients in the manufacturing, transport and power-generation industries by improving the material properties of structural or functional equipment, thereby improving its durability and longevity.

Laser-based services

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Our laser engineering services primarily focus on surface modification and component refurbishment through metal deposition or cladding. These services can be delivered onsite using our mobile unit.

Our facilities

Photonics prototyping facility

The photonics prototyping facility comprises a range of laser and optical workshops and laboratories equipped with specialised testing, diagnostic and ancillary equipment. Funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the facility, with its expert staff, supports prototyping for technology developers and inventors of photonic-based products.

Novel laser laboratory

The CSIR’s solid-state laser research and development laboratory is housed in a Class 1 000 cleanroom facility with isolated Class 100 and Class 10 areas for highly sensitive, dust-free work.

Additive manufacturing facility

Utilising the Aeroswift platform, the CSIR’s additive manufacturing facility can produce components of up to 2 m long, 600 mm wide and 600 mm high. It operates in a hot, inert processing environment that meets industry standards and is capable of printing with a variety of materials.

National programmes

We host collaborative initiatives involving research organisations, higher education institutions and stakeholders from the public and private sectors. These partnerships focus on research, development and the application of technologies to advance the photonics industry and strengthen the skills base.

African National Laser Centre

The African Laser Centre (ALC) is an initiative under the New Partnership for Africa's Development and is funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. The ALC is a virtual organisation that brings together researchers from across Africa in the fields of lasers and spectroscopy, with the aim of encouraging research and skills development on the continent. Watch video.

Collaborative Programme in Additive Manufacturing

The Collaborative Programme in Additive Manufacturing is managed by the CSIR on behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. It focuses on supporting research, development and innovation at local research institutions, in cooperation with industry, to drive the manufacturing readiness of additive manufacturing and its adoption in industry.

Laser Rental Pool Programme

The CSIR Laser Rental Pool Programme is funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, and allows researchers at higher education institutions to access and loan state-of-the-art equipment housed at the CSIR for their photonics research projects. The equipment includes laser sources, photonics-based diagnostics and ancillary equipment. Students come from different scientific fields and the programme has produced many successful graduates, scientific journal publications and patents

Laser technologies

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