In this episode of Photonics Hot List...
Smartwatches and other wearable devices have transformed how we monitor our fitness, keeping track of exercise routines and the body’s reactions to them. Unfortunately, some of the data obtained is often inaccurate, but incorporating a thermal camera into a wearable health-monitoring device can acquire more precise estimations of calories burned during a workout.
Dispersive Raman spectroscopy has long been the standard for a number of applications, from biomedical research to environmental monitoring. Such systems often have limitations, however, thanks to cumbersome setups and a narrow range of uses. But a newly developed compact and portable swept-source Raman spectroscopy system can identify a wide gamut of biological and chemical materials.
Quantum dots (QDs) have truly amazing qualities that can enhance things like solar cells and electronics displays. However, they’re synthetic, and toxic. But a team in India is now working on an ecofriendly alternative that could someday facilitate safer and more sustainable technologies.
