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One of the most fascinating things that continue to bewilder both young and old are laser technology. Lasers emit light by stimulating molecules or atoms. The light emissions take place at specific wavelengths.
Moreover, laser amplifies these emissions that produce a narrow beam of radiation. Laser light emissions are so cool that they even amaze animals like cats.
But beyond these intriguing light projections, what are the other uses of lasers? Continue reading below as we discuss the many other functions of laser and how it is shaping the world.
Check the Different Uses of Lasers
Cutting and Slicing
One of the most common uses of lasers is for cutting and slicing. Various industries use cutting tools that feature CO2 lasers. They use it to cut and slice all sorts of items with precision.
One good example is the textile industry. Today, clothing manufacturers use lasers to cut denim and other types of fabrics. Compared to people’s hands that use knives, lasers leave little to no room for errors.
Also, manufacturers use strong lasers to slice through metal sheets and other hard items with ease.
Metal Markings
Do you see those logos and other markings on some of your metal products? Companies use a laser engraving tool to place those logos and markings permanently over the metals. Some of the most common metal products that feature markings include mechanics, jewelry, electronics, and medical technology items.
The great thing about laser metal markings is that you can adjust their depth levels. They also come in high-definition, which ensures coverage of small and complex details. Additionally, laser markings are cost-efficient. They do not require any special treatments. They also do not produce waste.
The Medical Scalpel
The medical field is another industry that the laser is continuously changing. Analysts predict that the medical laser market size will grow to $16.4 billion by 2026.
As for the uses of laser in the industry, there are many. But one of the most popular ones is medical practitioners use the laser as a scalpel. There are medical procedures that go beyond the macro level and dig deep into the cellular level.
And with the latter, the traditional scalpel may cause damage to surrounding tissues. This is a critical risk, especially when operating on key organs like the brain. But with a laser scalpel, surgeons can perform the most delicate procedures while minimizing bleeding and swelling.
Apart from precision, laser scalpels help surgeons complete the procedures faster.
Scanning Barcodes
Retailers also benefit from laser technology in the form of barcode readers. This device uses a laser to scan barcodes that contain valuable product information. In grocery stores, the cashier uses a barcode scanner to account for the items that you are buying.
Pointing the scanner into the barcode reveals the price and other information about the product. It also registers the sale into their database. This is useful in managing its inventory.
3D Scanning
Manufacturers also use a laser to create digital renditions and recreations. Through 3D scanning, they can scan and render objects or different shapes and sizes. They can also do the same thing with human models and any other physical object for that matter.
Thereafter, they can send the scanned subjects to a scanner that will create the exact item. They can send the data to other parties regardless of their location.
Also, researchers use 3D scanning in their archaeological investigations. They scan the artifacts and 3D print them so they can further examine the details from all angles.
As Laser Pointers
Educators also benefit from laser technology. They use laser pointers during lectures especially when addressing larger crowds.
Furthermore, astronomers also use green lasers when observing the night skies. These powerful lasers emit light that allows astronomers to point to the stars.
Fiber Optics
The communications industry also benefits from laser technology through fiber optic cables. Compared to other types of cables, fiber optic transmits data using a laser. And because a laser travels very fast, you can send and receive data multiple times faster compared to other cable forms.
Fiber optic is one of the best options for a fast internet connection. If there is a downside to fiber optic cable, it is its availability. There are still many areas in the country, especially the rural ones, that do not offer fiber optic internet.
Eye Surgeries
Shifting back to the medical industry, eye doctors also use laser technology when performing certain eye surgeries. Laser eye surgery allows ophthalmologists to treat different issues with the eyes. They use it to address problems with the cornea where precision is paramount.
Furthermore, they use laser technology to remove extraneous blood vessels from the retina. The retina is ultra-thin and sensitive to light. Damage of the retina may lead to partial or permanent blindness.
Dental Surgeries
Even the dental community is now using laser technology in some of its most sensitive procedures. More dental offices are starting to use the Nd-YAG laser. This procedure uses a laser to take out cavities instead of using traditional dental drills.
The technology yields the right amount of power to take out the decaying tissue without harming the enamel. Also, the laser beam can arrest bleeding when dealing with deeper cavity problems.
Entertainment
Of course, this list will not be complete without touching the entertainment industry. For starters, there are laser light shows that are a marvel to watch.
There are also trade shows where exhibitors use laser signs to showcase their branding and attract visitors to their booths. You also see laser lights during live concerts and extravaganzas.
Defense
Last but not least, the national defense also uses laser technology. The military uses laser-guided technology for its missiles and other weapons. This allows them to destroy targets more precisely while reducing costs.
Learn More Beyond the Uses of Lasers
With these many uses of lasers, the technology will likely evolve further in the decades to come. But lasers are only one of the many other marvels that are changing the world.
We invite you to discover more about other technological advancements. Check out our other articles for more interesting topics on science and technology.
