Multi-wavelength rapid and random scanning for time-resolved mid-infrared laser spectroscopy

Tunable mid-infrared (IR) lasers attract significant interest for a number of advanced applications, for example, the structural analysis of biomolecules, such as protein and sugar chain, atmospheric remote sensing, the monitoring of poisonous gases and molecular treatment based on a molecule-structure change. In particular, a tunable mid-IR laser exhibiting high-speed wavelength tuning on the time scale from milliseconds to microseconds is expected to an important light source in molecular biology. To realize the above-mentioned applications, the tunable mid-IR laser requires wide-tuning-range and high-wavelength controllability to tune the mid-IR wavelengths to the absorption lines of molecules.