Solid-state 320 nm laser to replace HeCd laser in UV Raman spectroscopy analysis of ferroelectric perovskite thin films and heterostructures

Laser technology has evolved significantly over the years, driven not only by advances in engineering and optics but also by increasing environmental and regulatory pressures. In particular, the European Union has initiated the phased restriction
of cadmium (Cd), a highly toxic transition metal known to pose serious risks to both human health and the environment.

As a result, it is becoming increasingly interesting to look for safer laser alternatives to helium-cadmium (HeCd) lasers. In this application note we demonstrate how new diode-pumped solid-state lasers can serve as a very attractive Cadmium-free alternative to HeCd lasers in demanding ultra-low frequency Ramans spectroscopy analysis, by offering stable single-frequency emission at a similar UV wavelength, with in a high-quality beam and from a compact form factor.