Peter Fretty

1 month ago | laserfocusworld.com | Peter Fretty

Since China announced a ban of critical material exports to the U.S. last year, we’ve been paying close attention to how this move is impacting optics-based organizations within our community.  We reached out to Dave Shelton, president of AmeriCOM, Sam Rubin, CEO of LightPath Technologies, and Justin Sigley, AmeriCOM chief scientist—who are intimately aware of germanium’s role within optics manufacturing—and asked them an array of questions. We’ll continue to follow the situation as it evolves.

2 months ago | laserfocusworld.com | Peter Fretty

Operating within an innovation-centric industry has its perks. The larger photonics industry is a prime example. For most of its existence, photonics companies have enjoyed the type of compounded annual growth rates (CAGRs) that lead to nice profits and further enable innovation efforts.

Aug 5, 2024 | laserfocusworld.com | Peter Fretty

Innovation should play a meaningful role for any industry—but there is something special about each innovation within the photonics and optics realm. After all, each innovation within this space enables other industries to take the next step. This year’s submissions are no exception. There are some truly groundbreaking innovations that will ultimately change the many products impacting our daily lives for years to come. Everyone on this list deserves recognition.

Jul 25, 2024 | laserfocusworld.com | Peter Fretty

Ongoing export restrictions China has in place on germanium and gallium have created quite a stir across the tech space—and for good reason. Thermal optics, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), optical fibers, infrared sensors, semiconductors, and solar panels in their current form all depend on these well-known raw materials. As of July 2024, ingot prices reached record highs, an increase of 38% since China’s export restrictions took effect in .

Jul 9, 2024 | laserfocusworld.com | Peter Fretty

Dutch photonic chip accelerator PhotonDelta is opening a new office in North America as part of its goal to grow the photonic chip industry by promoting collaboration between European and North American organizations, both leaders in this emerging key enabling technology.