Optoelectronic precision from Hamamatsu: Light-based analytics for a wide range of applications

Hamamatsu is presenting a compact setup for photonics-based measurement and analysis processes at SENSOR+TEST. The focus is on optoelectronic sensors and light sources that cover a wide spectral range – from UV to the mid-infrared range. The systems on display enable the identification of materials, the analysis of gases, and the detection of contaminants in food, for example.

Versatile sensor solutions for UV to infrared

Hamamatsu specializes in optoelectronic components that can detect and analyze light in a wide range of wavelengths. The spectrum includes sensors for ultraviolet, visible, near-infrared, and mid-infrared light. These are complemented by matching light sources.

The solution presented combines both components in a single system, opening up flexible application possibilities in research and industry. Thanks to the combination with products from the subsidiary Energetiq—such as a laser-based tunable light source in the NIR range—precise measurements can be achieved, for example for the spectral analysis of materials.

Material analysis with spectral imaging

A key area of application is material-based identification. In a demonstration, various substances were recorded under defined lighting conditions using an infrared camera from Hamamatsu. The spectra obtained can be used not only to identify the materials, but also to distinguish between them. Such systems are suitable for use in the food industry, for example, to detect and sort out plastic contaminants in products. The modular design allows application-specific configurations.

FTIR technology for fast infrared measurements

With the new FTIR Engine, Hamamatsu introduces a compact, high-performance measurement system for the NIR range. It covers spectral ranges between 1100 and 2500 nanometers and communicates via Ethernet interfaces with high data rates. The speed of the new generation significantly exceeds that of previous models. Applications can be found in particular in materials analysis, inspection, and quality monitoring, for example in plastics recycling or agricultural photonics.

Flexible systems for specific customer requirements

Around two-thirds of the systems manufactured by Hamamatsu are customized solutions. Although the company offers a comprehensive product catalog, the portfolio is tailored to specific requirements. Hamamatsu has a wide range of infrared-based laser systems optimized for the detection of specific gases, particularly in the field of gas analysis. Although the focus is not on high-performance lasers, the company specializes in robust, precise solutions for analytics, such as industrial process monitoring and environmental measurement technology.

Photonics as a key technology in research and industry

Photonics is one of the core technologies of modern analytics systems. Its applications range from academic research laboratories to industrial applications and process control. With its modular system approach, Hamamatsu demonstrates how highly specialized components can be combined to meet complex requirements, whether in water analysis, chemical detection, or optical material testing. The setup on display provides practical insight into the concrete implementation of such applications.